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When someone dies in Ontario: death certificate, estate and probate

The first steps after a death in Ontario, how to get a death certificate and where to apply for probate, from the official pages.

First steps

  1. A doctor or coroner confirms the death and the funeral home registers it with the province. Ask the funeral home for several proofs of death.
  2. Look for the will and for the name of the executor (the person who administers the estate).
  3. Order a death certificate: banks, insurers and pension plans usually ask for one.
  4. Notify government benefit programs and the Canada Revenue Agency, and file the deceased's final tax return; the executor should also get a clearance certificate before distributing the estate.

Death certificate

The next of kin or an authorized representative (such as the executor, with proof) can apply for a certified copy of the death registration. The funeral director registers the death with the municipal clerk first; a burial permit cannot be issued before that.

Official page: death certificate ↗

The estate and probate

Probate is not always required, but normally is when the deceased owned real property or assets at a financial institution. Apply to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee (or a Small Estate Certificate); Estate Administration Tax is payable when you apply, and an Estate Information Return is due within 180 days of the certificate. With no will, the spouse or common-law partner usually has the first right to apply.

Official page: estates and probate ↗

General information, not legal or financial advice; fees, thresholds and forms change and were read on 2026-11-14. For a large or contested estate, ask a lawyer. Quebec estates are handled under Quebec's civil law: see atlasquebec.ca.

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