Creating your will is a big step - but where you keep it afterward matters just as much. Proper storage ensures your legally valid documents can be located and used when it matters most. This guide covers how - and where - to safely store your estate planning documents so they’re secure, accessible, and ready when needed.
What estate planning documents should I store?
Once your documents are signed and witnessed (or digitally signed in B.C.), you’ll want to store:
Your legal will
Power of attorney documents
Your asset list (not legally binding, but helpful)
Any custom instructions or personal wishes you'd like to leave for your executor or loved ones
Legal documents make your wishes enforceable, while items like your asset list and custom instructions provide helpful context - such as which accounts you hold or how to care for specific belongings.
General storage options
Choose a storage solution that’s both secure and accessible. Here are a few common options:
🗂 In your home: Store your signed documents in a fireproof and waterproof envelope, bag, or drawer. Just make sure your executor knows how to access them.
🏦 In a safety deposit box: This is a secure option, but make sure your executor is authorized to access the box. Otherwise, they may need a court order - which can delay things.
Storage of digitally executed wills (BC)
BC law allows for electronically executed wills, which means your digitally signed will is legally considered the original. In this case, you don’t need to print a physical copy. All copies of your digital will are considered legally valid - so there's no need to figure out which version is the "original".
Acceptable ways to store your digital will in B.C. include:
Saving it to your personal computer, phone, hard drive, or a USB stick
Uploading it to a secure cloud storage service or digital vault
Emailing a copy to yourself and your executor(s)
Make sure your executor knows how and where to access it.
For all other provinces: Willful keeps unsigned versions of your documents in your account for easy reference. But remember - only a printed, signed, and properly witnessed document is legally valid. You’re welcome to keep digital scans of your signed documents, but they don’t replace the original.
Who should know where my estate plan is stored?
It’s a good idea to tell:
Your executor
Your backup executor, if you’ve named one
A trusted family member or friend, just in case
Let them know:
Where your documents are stored
How to access them (e.g., passwords, safe keys, or any instructions)
That you’ve completed your will and named them in a key role
You don’t have to share the full contents - just the location and access details. Learn more about notifying your key appointees.
Keep it updated
If you move or change where your documents are stored, update your executor. And if you execute a new version of your will:
Label it clearly as the most recent version
Destroy older copies to avoid confusion
Staying organized helps make sure your most current wishes are the ones followed.