Does getting married automatically cancel my existing will in Ontario?
No. Since January 1, 2022, marriage no longer revokes an existing will in Ontario. Before that date, marriage automatically revoked a previously made will, unless it was made in contemplation of that specific marriage; the Accelerating Access to Justice Act, 2021 repealed that rule by amending the Succession Law Reform Act. A will you signed before your wedding now remains valid after you marry.
That does not mean you should leave an old will alone. It may still name an ex-partner, omit your new spouse entirely, or otherwise fail to reflect your current wishes. And even though the will itself survives, your new spouse gains rights the will may not address: an entitlement to part of your estate if any of it is not covered by a valid will, and the right to make an election under the Family Law Act for an equalization payment instead of taking under the will.
The practical point still stands: marrying is a good reason to review your will, just not because the old one becomes automatically void. A lawyer can confirm your will still reflects your wishes and properly provides for your new spouse.
Key takeaways
- Marriage no longer revokes a will in Ontario — that rule was repealed effective January 1, 2022.
- Before 2022, marriage automatically revoked a prior will unless it was made "in contemplation of" that marriage.
- A new spouse still has intestacy entitlements and a Family Law Act election, even though the will itself survives.
- Review and update your will after marrying so it reflects your new spouse's place in your plans.