Willful simplifies the estate planning process by guiding you through a personalized and legally sound online platform. This article provides an overview of how Willful works, its legal legitimacy, and common considerations when using the service.
Overview of the Willful process
Willful uses a structured, step-by-step questionnaire to help you create your will and related documents. The process is divided into the following key sections:
1. About You
Gathers essential demographic information
Tailored to the laws applicable in your jurisdiction
2. Your Family
Covers marital status, children, and pets
Includes guardianship decisions, if applicable
3. Your Estate
Guides decisions on beneficiaries, gifts, donations
Allows setting age milestones for inheritance
4. Your Arrangements
Assigns executors and power of attorney roles (premium plans only)
Lets you express burial and funeral wishes
Once complete:
Visit your documents page to download and print your will
Follow signing and witnessing instructions (digital execution is legal in BC)
FAQs
Can I preview my will before payment?
You cannot preview your complete will before purchase, but you can view a general clause sample here. This protects against misuse of incomplete documents.
Is Willful free?
You can create a free account and explore the platform. A one-time fee is required to finalize and download your documents.
Can I check out now and finish later?
Yes. You can secure exclusive promotional pricing by checking out early and returning at a later date to complete your will.
Can I update my will later?
Willful allows free, unlimited updates to your documents within your selected plan.
What if I move provinces?
Your will is generally valid across Canada. However, it's best to update your will to reflect new local laws.
Can I use Willful for joint wills?
Willful does not support joint or mutual wills. Each individual should create a separate account and document. Couples can take advantage of Willful's Premium x2 bundle for discounted accounts, but each partner must still create their own will. Note that Willful does not currently support complex needs like spousal trusts, and legal advice is recommended in such cases.
What if I'm uncomfortable making a will online?
Willful aims to simplify estate planning digitally but recognizes it may not suit everyone. You’re encouraged to explore options that best meet your comfort level.
