Estates Made Simple

Episode Summary In this special episode of the Estates Made Simple podcast, Gordon VanderLeek is joined one last time by long-time co-host Jenna Carvalho of Guardian Estate Company. After two and a half years and more than 70 episodes together, Jenna is stepping away from the podcast to focus on big projects in her business and a growing family. Gordon and Jenna use this transition as a chance to look back on what they’ve learned, what’s changing in the estate world, and what executors and families really need to know. They walk through their “Three T’s” - Tips, Trends, and Themes, and leave listeners with practical advice, reassurance, and a peek at what’s next for the show. Key Discussion Points 1. Jenna’s Transition & What’s Next for the Podcast 2. Jenna’s #1 Tip: Communication, Communication, Communication 3. Gordon’s Tip: Check Your Beneficiary Designations 4. Trend #1 – Who You Choose as Executor Is Changing 5. Trend #2: Over-Reliance on Google & AI for Legal Advice 6. Theme #1: Good Planning Leads to Smooth Administration 7. Theme #2: Every Estate Is Unique 8. Theme #3: Estate Administration Is a Meaningful Career Path Key Takeaways · Communication prevents 90% of estate problems. Clear, proactive updates (even when the news isn’t great) build trust, reduce conflict, and keep beneficiaries informed. · Your executor’s job reflects the quality of your planning. A clean, thoughtful estate plan makes administration smooth. A messy or outdated plan guarantees stress, delays, and confusion. · Beneficiary designations can override your will. RRSPs, TFSAs, and insurance policies need to be reviewed regularly, especially in blended families, to avoid accidental (and expensive) surprises. · Families are moving away from choosing children as executors. With more complex estates and kids living out of province, professional executors are becoming a more common and practical choice. · Online legal advice and AI tools have limits. Google and AI can spark good questions, but they cannot replace legal judgment, emotional nuance, or tailored estate planning. · Every estate is unique, checklists only get you halfway. Executors should expect unusual assets, unexpected wrinkles, and surprises not found on generic how-to lists. · Estate administration is a growing and meaningful career path. With Canada’s aging population, this field offers complexity, purpose, and long-term demand. · You don’t have to do estate administration alone. Executors do better and feel more confident when they have knowledgeable professionals in their corner. · The podcast will continue, even as Jenna steps back. Gordon plans to expand the format, bring in new guests, and keep delivering practical, accessible education for Canadians. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode of Estates Made Simple, Gordon and Jenna take listeners back to one of Canada’s most famous, and frankly, most entertaining estate cases: the will of Charles Vance Miller. Known as a sharp lawyer and practical joker, Miller turned his own estate into a social experiment that sparked headlines, lawsuits, and even a movie. From gifting stock to people who opposed the companies to leaving a house jointly to enemies who had to live together, Miller’s will was full of mischief. But the pièce de résistance? Leaving the residue of his estate to the Toronto woman who could have the most children within ten years of his death, an event that became known as The Great Stork Derby. Gordon and Jenna unpack this legal oddity through the lens of modern estate administration, discussing what today’s executors would face if this will landed on their desk. They explore everything from verifying beneficiaries to court applications, investments over a ten-year estate term, and whether such a will could even stand up under modern public policy. Key Discussion Points 1. Meet Charles Vance Miller – The Prankster Lawyer 2. Unusual and Provocative Bequests 3. The Infamous Residual Clause 4. Executor Nightmares and Legal Complexities 5. Public Policy and Legal Validity 6. Practical Lessons for Modern Estate Planning 7. The Outcome of the Great Stork Derby 8. Teaching Points and Takeaways Key Takeaways · Unique Intentions, Complex Administration: Miller’s sense of humour created extraordinary challenges for any executor. Securing assets, valuing shares, and verifying bizarre gifts would test even the most seasoned estate professional. · The Residue Clause Gone Wild: Leaving an estate to “the woman who has the most children in ten years” opened a floodgate of administrative and ethical questions. · Would It Hold Up Today? Gordon examines how such a clause might be struck down in 2025 for public policy reasons, while Jenna highlights the risk management and verification nightmare for any executor tasked with tracking births over a decade. · Executor Considerations: The discussion touches on interim compensation, court protection, and investment of estate funds, all critical in long-running or unusual estates. · Outcome of the Great Stork Derby: Four women tied for first place with nine children each, walking away with roughly $2 million each in today’s dollars Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode of Estates Made Simple, hosts Gordon VanderLeek and Jenna Carvalho deep dive into one of the more nuanced aspects of estate planning, gifting while someone is still alive under a power of attorney. When someone loses capacity and their power of attorney becomes active, what exactly can the appointed attorney do? Gordon and Jenna unpack the legal and ethical boundaries that govern financial and property decisions, exploring how these choices affect both the present well-being of the donor and the future distribution of their estate. They clarify a key distinction: in Canada, an “attorney” refers to someone acting under a power of attorney, not a lawyer and that role comes with serious fiduciary responsibilities. The discussion walks through practical examples, such as whether it’s appropriate to gift personal belongings while the donor is alive, how to manage valuable or appreciating assets, and when it may be necessary to seek court approval to protect everyone involved. Key Discussion Points 1. Understanding the Role of an Attorney (in Canada) 2. Scope of Authority Under a Power of Attorney 3. Respecting Testamentary Intent 4. Financial Considerations Before Gifting 5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid 6. When Gifting May Make Sense 7. Legal and Practical Safeguards 8. Evaluating the Nature of Assets 9. Assessing the Donor’s Circumstances Key Takeaways · Acting under a power of attorney gives broad but not unlimited powers — especially when it comes to gifting or benefiting others. · Always be mindful of the donor’s testamentary intent and how current decisions impact the future estate distribution. · Attorneys should evaluate the donor’s ongoing financial needs before gifting or selling assets. · When in doubt, document everything, seek legal advice, and consider court direction to avoid disputes later. · Appreciating vs. depreciating assets can drastically change what’s prudent to gift or sell. · Beneficiary consent and proper records can help protect the attorney from potential liability. For families with disabled children, coordinate trust planning to preserve tax advantages and long-term stability. · Above all, proactive planning minimizes stress and litigation, ensuring your assets go where you intend. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gordon and Jenna explore estate planning for divorced and separated couples, one of the most common and complex scenarios in estate law. With nearly half of marriages ending in divorce, this conversation is relevant to countless Canadians navigating the legal and emotional transition from shared to individual planning. They discuss how divorce impacts wills, executors, and beneficiary designations, and how proper planning can prevent future disputes for both families and executors. Key Discussion Points 1. Why Updating Your Estate Plan Post-Divorce Is Essential 2. The Core Documents to Update 3. Property, Beneficiaries, and Obligations 4. Executor and Trustee Considerations 5. Managing Trusts for Minor Children 6. Estate Planning for Families with Disabled Children 7. Avoiding Future Litigation Key Takeaways · Divorce requires a complete estate plan review, don’t rely on old documents or assumptions. · Update all legal documents: will, power of attorney, personal directive, and beneficiary designations. · Communicate between legal advisors in family and estate law for coordinated planning. · Anticipate conflicts and choose executors or trustees who can manage them impartially. · For families with disabled children, coordinate trust planning to preserve tax advantages and long-term stability. · Above all, proactive planning minimizes stress and litigation, ensuring your assets go where you intend. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, we’re joined again by Michaela Summers, associate lawyer at VanderLeek Law and head of the estate administration department. This is part two of our “Estates Gone Badly” series. There were simply too many stories (and lessons) to fit into one episode, so in this episode we continue exploring real-life examples of estate administration gone sideways and what could have been done differently to avoid costly, stressful, or relationship-damaging outcomes. Key Discussion Points 1. DIY and Hybrid Wills Gone Wrong · The risks of mixing holograph (handwritten) and formal will requirements. · Why having a beneficiary witness a will can void their gift. · How courts may handle these cases and why family harmony often determines whether things turn out well. 2. Multiple Executors and Family Conflict · When “treating everyone equally” creates more problems than solutions. · Lessons on choosing executors based on skills, judgment, and ability to collaborate not just fairness. 3. The Power (and Absence) of Communication · Why clear communication with family about your estate plan is one of the greatest gifts you can leave. · The damage that secrecy and surprises in a will can cause, even when legally valid. · Alternative ways to explain decisions - letters, videos, or conversations to help preserve family relationships. Key Takeaways · A small upfront investment in professional estate planning saves thousands in legal costs and heartache later. · Don’t appoint multiple executors just to avoid “picking favourites.” Choose the right person for the job or consider a neutral third party. · Communication with family members, whether through direct conversation or written explanations, reduces surprises, prevents conflict, and protects relationships. A strong executor is trustworthy, has time, and makes sound decisions. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gordon VanderLeek takes the hot seat while co-host Jenna Carvalho fires off some of the most common estate administration and planning questions we’ve heard over the past year. With a one-minute time limit per question (yes, Gord had bumper rails this time), listeners get quick, clear answers to the issues that come up most often. This episode is perfect for anyone who wants a fast-paced overview of tricky estate topics without the legal jargon. Key Discussion Points 1. The real reasons estate administration often takes longer than expected. 2. How and when executors receive compensation for their work. 3. Why it’s important to speak with your chosen executor ahead of time. 4. Best practices for storing wills and estate documents safely. 5. Situations where probate is required to access or manage assets. 6. The costs of probate in Alberta and how they compare nationally. 7. Essential qualities of an effective executor. Key Takeaways · Estate timelines often hinge on banks, CRA, and other third parties. · Executor compensation typically happens at the end of the process. · Naming an executor without asking first can create major problems later. · Keep original estate documents safe, and make sure your executor knows where they are. · Probate is about proving authority to act—it’s not always optional. · Alberta’s probate fee is currently $525, the lowest in Canada. · A strong executor is trustworthy, has time, and makes sound decisions. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode of Estates Made Simple, hosts Jenna Carvalho and Gordon VanderLeek tackle an important and complex topic: estate planning for beneficiaries with special needs. Gordon draws on both his professional expertise and personal experience to explain the unique considerations families need to be aware of when preparing their estate. From trust structures and government support programs to exempt assets and long-term housing, this episode provides practical guidance for families who want to ensure their loved ones are cared for now and in the future. Key Discussion Points 1. Why Special Needs Planning Requires Extra Care 2. Trust Structures and Government Supports Henson TrustsAssured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)$100,000 asset limit3. Exempt Assets Beneficiaries Can Hold Registered Disability Savings Plans (RDSPs)4. Estate Administration Considerations six-month probate waiting period5. Housing and Mobility Challenges 6. Disability Advocates and Support Programs PDDFSCDDisability Tax Credit7. The Importance of Updating Your Plan Key Takeaways Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this eye-opening episode of Estates Made Simple, Gord and Jenna are joined by Michaela Summers to share behind-the-scenes stories of estate files that didn’t go according to plan. These real-life “estates gone badly” serve as cautionary tales—highlighting what can go wrong when planning is incomplete, improper, or ignored altogether. Michaela, who leads the estate administration practice at VanderLeek Law, shares three compelling cases that emphasize how even modest estates can become complicated, expensive, and emotionally charged without proper planning. Key Discussion Points Key Takeaways Planning = Peace of MindIntent ≠ OutcomeFamily Dynamics MatterKnow Your RelationshipsHosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this insightful episode, Gordon and Jenna explore one of the most pivotal decisions in estate planning: choosing the right executor. While many focus on asset distribution, the choice of executor can make or break the success of an estate administration. From strained family dynamics to logistical challenges, this conversation dives into the top five reasons you may want to rethink your executor — plus a bonus tip to future-proof your plan. Key Discussion Points Out-of-Province ExecutorsStrained RelationshipsPoor Decision-MakingConflicts of InterestLack of TimeBonus Tip – Age MattersTakeaways peopleSubscribe & Share If you’re planning your estate — or helping someone else through the process — don’t miss this episode. Subscribe to Estates Made Simple on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube. Know someone who’s thinking about updating their will? Share this episode with them! Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gord and Jenna welcome Randy Frisch, a two-time tech founder and CEO of Trusty Estate, to discuss a common challenge in estate planning: what happens to the meaningful, personal items that aren't covered in a traditional will? Randy shares how his app, MyTrusty.ai, helps individuals document and assign personal valuables—like heirlooms, keepsakes, or high-value items—by combining modern AI tools with estate planning principles. The app allows users to upload images, record video wishes, store important documents, and grant secure, time-sensitive access to executors after death. The goal? Reduce ambiguity, ease the executor’s role, and preserve family harmony. What You'll Learn Why Wills Aren’t EnoughLetter of Wishes, ReinventedPreventing DisputesSmart Document StorageExecutor Access, Done RightSupport for AdvisorsKey Quote “We wanted to create a way to preserve the intention behind a gift—not just the item itself. A bracelet, a painting, a watch—they all come with stories. This helps make sure those stories and wishes are passed on clearly.” – Randy Frisch Try the App You can find MyTrusty.ai on the App Store or Google Play or visit mytrusty.ai to learn more. If you work with an advisor, ask if they offer access through their practice. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gord and Jenna explore one of the trickier conversations in estate planning: should you tell your children what they’ll inherit? While disclosure will happen eventually during estate administration, the question is whether discussing the inheritance while you’re still alive helps or hinders family harmony. Gord and Jenna break down the pros and cons, including how preemptive communication can prevent legal challenges and protect family relationships. Key Topics Covered The Timing of Disclosure Litigation Risks Managing Unequal Distribution Stewardship and Education When Trusts Are Involved Planning vs. Secrecy Practical Takeaways Start earlyUse conversation to educatePrepare your executorUse your advisorsRevisit regularly“Estate surprises may sound fun, but they rarely end well. Talk to your kids. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.” Don’t forget: Subscribe to Estates Made Simple on your favourite podcast app or watch full episodes on YouTube. Have a topic you want covered? Drop us a line—we’d love to hear from you. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this week’s episode, Gord and Jenna tackle a question many executors (and planners) may not have thought of: What happens when an executor passes away during the administration of an estate? This isn’t just a legal technicality—it can create delays, additional court processes, increased costs, and stress for beneficiaries. Gord draws on real-life scenarios from his legal practice to walk us through how this unfolds and how to plan ahead to reduce risk. Key Topics Covered Common Triggers What the Will Says Matters When There Are No Alternates Named Delays and Risk Why Age and Succession Planning Matter When a Trust Company Makes Sense Best Practices for Estate Planning alternate executorsReview your will regularlyNotify your executorConsider a corporate executor“Picking a great executor is only half the job. Making sure they’re still alive, willing, and legally empowered to act when the time comes is just as important.” Don’t forget: Subscribe to Estates Made Simple wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on YouTube for more estate planning insights—simplified. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary Today we’re diving into the world of charitable giving and the growing role of donor-advised funds (DAFs) in estate administration. Special guest Ian Currie from Canada Gives joins Gordon and Jenna to walk executors and estate planners through how donor-advised funds work, when to consider a private foundation, and how to honour a loved one’s philanthropic legacy with more ease and flexibility. Whether you’re planning your own estate or administering someone else's, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about managing charitable gifts effectively and strategically. What You’ll Learn Foundations vs. Donor-Advised FundsExecutor ResponsibilitiesSetting Up a Donor-Advised FundInvestment and Granting OptionsBest Practices for Estate PlanningReal-World Example Ian shares the story of a $20M estate where the executor was tasked with giving $10M to charity. Through a DAF, they avoided issuing 20 individual gifts and instead structured multi-year giving plans to multiple charities—all with one tax receipt, investment oversight, and ongoing family involvement. It reduced complexity and honoured the donor’s legacy with intention and efficiency. Connect with Ian Currie Ian Currie, MFA-P™ Regional Development Manager – Western Canada 📧 icurrie@canadagives.ca 📞 Direct: 587-334-8229 | Toll Free: 1-844-583-4483 Canada Gives – Toronto | Collingwood | Edmonton 📬 Mailing Address: #203 – 40 Huron St, Collingwood ON L9Y 4R3 🌐 www.canadagives.ca Subscribe to Estates Made Simple for more expert insights on estate administration and planning. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary Digital assets are no longer just a tech issue—they’re a legal, financial, and emotional part of modern estate administration. In this episode, Gordon and Jenna are joined by Nicole Garton, a seasoned estates lawyer and the President of BC’s Heritage Trust Company, to explore what executors and planners need to know about managing digital assets after death. From crypto and cloud-stored photos to email, social media, and intellectual property, digital assets are now a vital part of estate planning—and ignoring them can lead to legal delays, disputes, or even permanent loss of value. Key Topics Covered What Are Digital Assets?Why Digital Assets MatterPlanning ConsiderationsWhat Executors Should KnowBest Practices and Tools Final Thoughts Digital assets introduce a modern challenge for executors—but also a chance to protect important value. Whether managing an estate or planning your own, this episode offers practical steps to avoid costly errors and delays. Resources Mentioned: heritagetrustcompany.caLet’s Talk LegacyQuestions or referrals? Reach out to Gordon or Jenna anytime. Subscribe to Estates Made Simple on your favourite podcast platform or YouTube. Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gordon and Jenna dive into the complexities of administering estates with international or cross-border assets. Whether it’s a vacation home in Portugal, a U.S. investment account, or a bank balance left behind in another country, executors need to navigate legal, tax, and logistical hurdles carefully to avoid missteps. As more Canadians hold global assets, this episode offers timely advice for executors and estate planners to help protect estate value and minimize risk. Key Topics Covered Why International Assets Matter More Than Ever The Three Buckets of Executor Complexity 1. Legal 2. Tax & Financial 3. Logistics Planning & Administration Tips For Estate Planners For Executors Final Thoughts Cross-border estates require more than just good intentions—they require professional support, proactive planning, and strong documentation. Whether you’re an executor facing international property or planning your own global legacy, this episode helps point you in the right direction. 🔗 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or watch on YouTube. Need referrals for cross-border legal or accounting help? Reach out to Gordon or Jenna directly. Thanks for listening to Estates Made Simple! Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this special guest episode of Estates Made Simple, Gordon and Jenna welcome Melissa Best, a seasoned money manager turned tech entrepreneur, who shares her deep insight into why estate organization is often the missing link in a well-laid estate plan. Melissa draws on 40+ years of experience managing high-net-worth portfolios and fiduciary accounts to reveal the most common executor challenges—and how her platform, Quick Estate, is helping fix them. Whether you’re an executor, estate planner, or simply trying to get your affairs in order, this episode is packed with practical tips and aha moments on what to document, how to stay organized, and how to make life easier for your future executor. Key Topics Covered Why Estate Planning Often Falls Short What is Estate Organization—And Why Does It Matter? Executor Realities: It’s Harder Than You Think a full-time job for a year or morepersonally liableA Peek into Quick Estate’s Tools Estate OrganizerExecutor ToolkitDon’t Want Software? Melissa’s Advice Is Simple: where everything ismonthsFinal Thoughts Melissa’s core message? Don’t leave your executor in the dark. Whether you use Quick Estate or a plain old notepad, estate organization is one of the best gifts you can leave your loved ones. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Catch this episode and more on your favourite podcast platform, or watch the full video on YouTube. 🔗 Learn more about Melissa’s platform at QuickEstate.ca 💬 Have questions or topic ideas? Reach out to the team—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, thanks for tuning in to Estates Made Simple! Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Jenna and Gordon tackle a sometimes controversial topic: executor compensation. Many executors feel hesitant about charging a fee, fearing family pushback or concerns about fairness. But executor work is complex, time-consuming, and carries personal liability—making compensation not just reasonable, but essential. They break down the legal entitlement to executor fees, discuss common misconceptions, and share practical strategies to ensure executors are fairly compensated while maintaining transparency with beneficiaries. Key Takeaways ✔ 1. Executors Are Entitled to Compensation joblegal duties and financial riskout-of-pocket expenses should be reimbursed✔ 2. Compensation Should Reflect Workload & Liability estate assets, taxes, debts, and legal obligationspersonal liability✔ 3. The Market Standard: 2% - 5% of the Estate fair and reasonablesize, complexity, and time spentSmaller, complex estateslarger estates✔ 4. Keep Track of Your Time & Expenses task completed and time spenthelp support claims✔ 5. Executors Shouldn’t Decide Compensation Too Early wait until estate tasks are nearly complete✔ 6. Present Compensation with Final Accounting final financial reports and distributionswork involved and the fairness of the fee✔ 7. Legal & Professional Guidance is Key validatereduces disputesFinal Thoughts Being an executor is a serious responsibility, and fair compensation ensures the role is properly fulfilled. By keeping detailed records, communicating openly, and seeking professional advice, executors can confidently request fair and reasonable compensation. Executors—don’t sell yourself short! 💪 Subscribe & Follow Subscribe to Estates Made Simple for more insights on estate administration. Watch us on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform. 📌 See you next time! 😊 Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gordon and Jenna discuss the unique challenges of managing charitable beneficiaries in estate administration. With charitable giving on the rise, executors must understand legal responsibilities, tax implications, and best practices when working with charities. Learn how to engage with charities, determine if they accept assets in kind, and ensure transparent communication to avoid issues in the estate process. Key Takeaways 1. Charitable Giving Requires a Will A charity cannot inherit under intestacy lawstax benefits2. Find the Right Charity Contact estate administration departmentstake time3. Consider Transferring Assets in Kind stocks, real estate, or private company sharesmarketable securities4. Work with an Accountant Early change over timereduce taxesmaximize estate value5. Understand the Difference: Residual vs. Fixed Gifts Residual Beneficiary:percentageFixed Amount Beneficiary:set sumno oversight rightsmore documentation6. Transparency & Regular Communication follow up for updatesregular accounting7. Timing Matters paid out earlierdelayedinternal approval stepsFinal Thoughts For Executors: ✅ Contact charities early to discuss requirements. ✅ Work with legal and tax professionals for compliance. ✅ Keep detailed records and communicate regularly. For Estate Planning: ✅ Decide between a fixed or percentage gift. ✅ Review tax benefits of charitable giving. ✅ Clearly document your wishes in your will. Charitable giving can leave a lasting legacy, but proper planning is key. Subscribe & Follow Subscribe to Estates Made Simple on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube for more expert insights on estate administration. 📌 See you next time! 😊 Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gordon and Jenna break down three key aspects of estate administration that often surprise executors. While many assume the role is straightforward, there are hidden complexities, legal responsibilities, and risks that can catch executors off guard. They discuss the public nature of probate, the personal liability risks of being an executor, and the importance of understanding that you can decline the role before acting. If you’ve been named an executor or are involved in estate planning, this episode is packed with essential insights. Key Takeaways 1. Probate is a Public Process public documentsearch and request copies2. Executors Can Be Held Personally Liable can be held financially responsiblePersonal liabilityexecutor insurance, professional guidance, and beneficiary indemnities.3. Executors Can Decline the Role You do not have to accept the role of executorrequires a formal legal processhave conversations in advance to ensure the right person is appointed.Final Thoughts & Next Steps Executors should educate themselves on the responsibilities and risks before acting. Thoughtful planning and early conversations can prevent future complications. If you’ve been named an executor, seek legal advice to ensure you’re prepared. Subscribe & Follow Thank you for tuning in! Subscribe to Estates Made Simple on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. 📌 See you next time! 😊 Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Episode Summary In this episode, Gordon and Jenna discuss stepping down as an executor after you’ve already started acting. While renouncing before taking on the role is straightforward, resigning once you've begun administering the estate requires a formal court application. They explore when an executor should consider stepping down, the legal process involved, and key considerations to ensure a smooth transition. Whether due to conflict of interest, family disputes, health concerns, or legal challenges, executors must follow the proper steps to protect themselves from liability and ensure the estate is properly managed. Key Takeaways ✔ Reasons an Executor Might Resign: Conflict of interestFamily disputesLong-term trust obligationsHealth issues or personal circumstances✔ The Legal Process for Resigning as an Executor: Court application requiredC1 & C2 forms in AlbertaBeneficiaries and interested parties must be notifiedfinal accounting of estate actions✔ Best Practices for Executors Considering Resignation: Act earlyWork with a lawyerPlan ahead in estate planningConsider third-party professionalsFinal Thoughts & Next Steps If you’re feeling overwhelmed as an executor, it’s important to assess your ability to continue and take action before complications arise. Seeking professional advice early can prevent unnecessary delays, liability, and disputes. Subscribe & Follow Thank you for tuning in! Subscribe to Estates Made Simple on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. 📌 See you next time! 😊 Hosts: Jenna Carvalho The smartest way to choose an executor. Guardian Estate Company Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Gordon VanderLeek Give your family a legacy of protection - Wills, Estates and Trusts. VanderLeek Law Facebook LinkedIn Instagram