How much are probate fees in Alberta?

Alberta uses a flat, capped fee based on estate value. The maximum is $525 for estates over $250,000, no matter how large the estate is — among the lowest in Canada.

How long does Alberta probate take?

A grant is usually issued within a few weeks to a few months after a complete application. Full administration of the estate commonly takes a year or more.

What court handles probate in Alberta?

The Surrogate division of the Court of King's Bench. It issues a grant of probate where there is a will or a grant of administration where there is not.

Is Alberta cheaper for probate than Ontario or BC?

Usually, yes. Alberta's flat $525 cap means large estates pay far less than in Ontario (1.5%) or BC (1.4%), where there is no upper limit on probate charges.

Probate in Alberta: Fees, Timelines, and the Process

Probate in Alberta is handled through the Surrogate division of the Court of King's Bench. Alberta is notable for charging flat, capped probate fees rather than a percentage of the estate, which keeps costs low even for large estates. This is general information, not legal advice — consult a lawyer in your province.

How does probate work in Alberta?

In Alberta the personal representative applies to the Surrogate Court (part of the Court of King's Bench) for a grant of probate where there is a will, or a grant of administration where there is none.

The grant confirms the personal representative's authority so banks, investment firms, and the land titles office will transfer assets. The application includes the will, an inventory of assets and debts, and notices to beneficiaries.

How much are Alberta probate fees?

Alberta charges a flat fee based on the value of the estate, and the fee is capped. The top tier is $525 for estates over $250,000, regardless of how large the estate is.

This is dramatically lower than percentage-based provinces. A $2 million estate that might pay tens of thousands in Ontario or BC pays only $525 in Alberta court fees.

How long does probate take in Alberta?

Once a complete application is filed, the Surrogate Court typically issues a grant within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the volume of filings and whether anything needs correcting.

Administering the full estate usually takes a year or more, especially when the personal representative waits for the CRA clearance certificate before making final distributions.

Who can claim against an Alberta estate?

Under the Wills and Succession Act, a family member such as a spouse, adult interdependent partner, or child who is not adequately provided for can apply for greater support out of the estate.

Alberta's Family Property Act can also give a surviving spouse or adult interdependent partner a property claim, which is resolved before the remaining estate is distributed under the will.

Can you make an Alberta will online?

Yes. A will made with a quality online service is valid in Alberta provided it is printed, signed, and witnessed correctly under the Wills and Succession Act, which requires two witnesses for a formal will.

iFinallyWill produces Alberta-specific wills and powers of attorney online, with the right signing instructions, lifetime updates, and a money-back guarantee. For complex estates such as farms or businesses, also seek legal advice.

Frequently asked questions

How much are probate fees in Alberta?: Alberta uses a flat, capped fee based on estate value. The maximum is $525 for estates over $250,000, no matter how large the estate is — among the lowest in Canada.
How long does Alberta probate take?: A grant is usually issued within a few weeks to a few months after a complete application. Full administration of the estate commonly takes a year or more.
What court handles probate in Alberta?: The Surrogate division of the Court of King's Bench. It issues a grant of probate where there is a will or a grant of administration where there is not.
Is Alberta cheaper for probate than Ontario or BC?: Usually, yes. Alberta's flat $525 cap means large estates pay far less than in Ontario (1.5%) or BC (1.4%), where there is no upper limit on probate charges.