How do I choose the right estate trustee for my Ontario will?

Your estate trustee (sometimes called an executor) is the person who collects your assets, pays your debts and taxes, and distributes the estate to your beneficiaries. It is one of the most important appointments in your will, and choosing the wrong person can cause delays, disputes, and financial harm to your estate.

The key qualities to look for are: trustworthiness, organizational ability, availability, and willingness to serve. Being an estate trustee takes time — often months to years for complex estates — and requires attention to paperwork, deadlines, and sometimes difficult family dynamics. Your estate trustee does not need to be a lawyer or accountant, but they must be comfortable seeking professional help when needed.

You can name a co-trustee (two people acting together), a corporate trustee (such as a trust company), or a combination. You should always name an alternate in case your first choice cannot serve. The trustee must be at least 18 years old and is ideally resident in Ontario or Canada, as out-of-country trustees may face procedural complications with probate.

An estate trustee is entitled to compensation, generally a percentage of the estate value, unless your will specifies otherwise.