In Canada, there are no taxes that apply directly to inheritances. However, this does not mean that property and assets left to beneficiaries are not taxed.

There is no inheritance tax charged to beneficiaries, but by the time assets are distributed to them taxes have already been paid by your estate.

With proper planning and a fully comprehensive estate plan, including a will, you can manage the tax effect on your estate and maximize the assets passed on to your heirs.

Canada does not have an “estate tax”, unlike some other jurisdictions such as the United States. However, you may not realize that there is a “deemed disposition tax” that applies at the time of your passing.

There are ways to structure your estate plan and/or your will so that this tax can be managed, enabling your beneficiaries to receive the maximum amount possible.