Open ProvincesWills, powers of attorney and health care directives in Alberta
How to make a valid will, an enduring power of attorney and a personal or health care directive in Alberta: signing and witnessing rules and who can help, from the official pages.
The three documents and how to make them
Will (Wills and Succession Act): in writing, signed by the testator in front of two witnesses present at the same time, each signing in the testator's presence; a holograph will needs no witnesses; gifts to a witness or the witness's spouse are generally void unless there are two other witnesses or a court validates it. Personal directive (Personal Directives Act): in writing, dated, signed by the maker in front of one witness; the agent, the agent's spouse or partner and the maker's spouse or partner cannot witness; a form exists but is optional and no lawyer is required; the witness must be at least 18. Enduring power of attorney: there are no regulated forms and the province recommends using a lawyer; check the Powers of Attorney Act for signing rules.
A will, a power of attorney for property and a document naming someone for personal or health decisions are three different tools: a power of attorney ends at death and cannot make a will, and a will does nothing while you are alive. Formalities are strict (a missed witness rule can void a document) and some sources below are old or incomplete: for a large or complex situation, see a lawyer or a public legal information service. Rules, fees and programs change and were read on 2026-11-14: confirm with the official source. General information, not legal advice. Quebec follows its own rules: see atlasquebec.ca.
Guides for this province
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- Wills, powers of attorney and health care directives in Alberta