Agent for Executor Services | Estate Settlement
Grant of Probate | Estate Information Return

Overview

When someone dies, their assets and liabilities make up what is known as their estate. Estate administration involves the collection of their assets, the payment of their debts, and the distribution of their assets after they die. The process is overseen by an executor, often a family member (who may be assisted by an agent), who is responsible for settling the estate of the deceased.

Where to begin

The first step in settling an estate is to obtain a copy of the deceased person’s will, make a list of the assets, and apply for a grant of probate from the court. This will provide authority to deal with the deceased person’s estate. If the deceased person did not have a will, their estate is distributed according to the applicable provincial laws of intestacy, with a pre-determined distribution schedule to their surviving next of kin.

How can Objective Estate Services help?

Estate administration involves several financial, tax, legal, and government requirements. We can assist by acting as an agent for the executor to provide a full spectrum of duties related to the estate settlement process, or by simply guiding the executor as needed on a limited scope retainer or hourly as-needed basis. Essentially, we can assist an executor with some or all their duties.

Some of these duties include:

  • Interpreting the will
  • Summarizing the estate assets and liabilities
  • Obtaining values for real estate, businesses, or other assets
  • Notifying or cancelling applicable government services (pension or survivor benefits, driver’s license, health card, etc.)
  • Advertising for creditors
  • Notifying financial institutions
  • Completing insurance claims
  • Compiling and maintaining records
  • Regular communication with beneficiaries
  • Applying for probate
  • Filing the Estate Information Return with the Ministry of Finance
  • Obtaining a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee
  • Transferring assets into the name of the estate
  • Arranging for the sale of assets
  • Closing accounts
  • Paying debts, taxes, and other expenses
  • Filing required and optional tax returns and forms
  • Applying for tax clearance certificates
  • Distributing assets to the beneficiaries
  • Preparing a statement of estate account
  • Obtaining releases
  • Other needs as required

The probate and estate administration process can be complex and time-consuming. We can assist with some or all related requirements to ensure the process is carried out correctly.


Maria Tanel

Who would be helping me?

Maria Tanel is a caring and experienced estate professional, P1 paralegal licensed by the Law Society of Ontario, notary public, and commissioner of oaths. She has over 25 years of experience working with executors to manage their estate administration matters. She has been an active volunteer, acting as a group facilitator for over 10 years with Catholic Community Services of York Region.

What type of costs are involved?

Estate administration by a trust company or lawyer generally costs 5% of the estate value. Our standard estate administration fees are significantly less. We will provide a written quote for flat-fee or hourly options based on a thorough understanding of the estate.

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Reg KrakeReg Krake
04:37 17 Jan 23
After many failed or lacklustre results from years (!) of prior efforts to get a solid, objective financial planner in OUR corner, we were thrilled to find Andrew Dobson through Objective Financial Planners. What set Andrew apart, in addition to OFP's truly objective, client-centred approach, was how he truly LISTENED to us, reflected back what he heard, and then designed scenarios that matched to our goals, including some scenarios we proposed as well. It was an iterative process, and the trust only grew over the course of our engagement. In the end it was the most educational, helpful and outcome-oriented financial and retirement planning analysis, advice and (!!) game plan we'd ever encountered. For the first time, we truly felt *confident* about our retirement goals, plans and (!) options to get there. I would recommend Andrew's services unreservedly.
Christopher AndrewsChristopher Andrews
21:06 03 Jan 23
Working with Brenda at Objective Financial Partners was a fantastic experience. She delivers precisely on the promise of the company name - a very objective financial perspective wrapped up in a collaborative and outcome-driven process.She asked thorough and rigourous questions in getting an understanding of our goals and was patient in answering our own numerous questions. She gave objective points-of-view, always referring back to data, both recent and historical. This data-driven approach, combined with direct experience and a client-centric manner got us to a great place - a sound plan we have the greatest confidence in.Our only regret is not engaging Brenda sooner. We highly recommend her.
Raman NijjarRaman Nijjar
18:44 22 Sep 22
The financial industry is not easy to navigate, particularly to find good, sound and neutral financial advice. We had heard of Objective Financial Partners several times, and then found Nancy Grouni! From the very first time we reached out to her, and still till this day, she has consistently been extremely knowledgeable, thorough, kind, and compassionate. She put us at ease right away, and we have found comfort in her sound and experienced advice. Thank you Nancy for setting us on a sound financial path. We are grateful for the time you spent with us, and look forward to continuing to work together.
Simon AngSimon Ang
15:47 15 Aug 22
My wife and I contacted Nancy Grouni when we were deciding on retirement. Nancy created comprehensive plans covering each year, for each us of us individually as well as both together. These helped us not only to retire with confidence but also to feel much better equipped to handle the challenges of this rapidly changing world. Nancy takes a holistic approach which we appreciate. It is a pleasure working with her and we look forward to our meetings. We are happy to recommend Nancy to anyone interested in getting help with financial planning.
Stan JeramStan Jeram
01:07 10 Aug 22
Nancy Grouni is very professional, knowledgeable, and patient. She takes the time to explain any concept or idea, and ensures that we thoroughly understand before moving on. She is in tune with our personal goals, and offers non-prejudice, tailored financial advice that meets our specific needs. She also provides follow-up information/explanations to really help solidify her financial plans. I would highly recommend her expertise, and look forward to continuing to work with her in the future.

Objective Estate Services

675 Cochrane Drive
East Tower, 6th Floor
Markham, Ontario
L3R 0B8

T. 416.691.8471
Toll Free. 1.855.691.8471

Providing fee-only financial planning to clients in Toronto or worldwide via Zoom or Skype

Copyright © 2018 |Objective Financial Partners Inc. o/a Objective Estate Services | All rights reserved.

We don’t sell investments, so we’re not going to tell you which stocks to buy and sell. However, we can build you a comprehensive and truly objective financial plan.

Please send email inquiries to info@objectiveestate.com