Holograph will

A holograph will is the simplest form of will. It may consist of only a few lines.

Validity and probate

A holograph will is only valid if you write it by hand and sign it yourself. You cannot use a computer or pre-existing form.

It is preferable to date a holograph will. If you have made several wills, dating makes it easier to determine which is most recent.

You do not need a witness for this type of will.

If you choose to make a holograph will, you will be the only person who knows it exists.

Be sure that someone you trust knows where you keep your will. You can also contact a notary or a lawyer, who will register a notice regarding the existence of your will with the Register of Testamentary Dispositions of the Chambre des notaires du Québec or the Register of Testaments and Mandates kept by the Barreau du Québec.

The costs of this registration must be borne by you. It will allow your relatives to be informed of the existence of your will during a will search.

After your death, your relatives must have your will probated by the Superior Court or by a notary.

Writing a holograph will costs nothing if you do it yourself. However, there are costs associated with probating it after your death.