Codicil<\/th>	New Will<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Creates confusion, must be read alongside the original Will<\/td>	Standalone document, clear and complete<\/td><\/tr>
Can contradict the original Will, creating ambiguity<\/td>	Replaces the original entirely, no ambiguity<\/td><\/tr>
Both documents must be found and submitted for probate<\/td>	Only one document needed<\/td><\/tr>
Multiple codicils compound confusion<\/td>	Always current and complete<\/td><\/tr>
Requires same signing formalities as a new Will<\/td>	Same signing formalities, no harder than a codicil<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Since a codicil requires the same formalities as a new Will (signing, witnessing) and creates potential complications, there is no practical advantage to using one. A new Will is always the better option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How Do I Create a New Will to Replace My Old One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n The process depends on how your original Will was created:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your original Will was created at LegalWills.ca:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n \n Log in to your account at LegalWills.ca<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n Make the necessary changes to your Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n Print the updated Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n Sign and have it witnessed<\/a>, the same two-witness requirement applies<\/li>\n\n\n\n Destroy the old signed Will (shred or burn it)<\/li>\n\n\n\n Store the new Will securely and inform your executor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n This process is free at LegalWills.ca, there is no charge to update your Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your original Will was created by a lawyer:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n \n You can return to the same lawyer (fees will apply; typically $200\u2013$500+ for updates)<\/li>\n\n\n\n You can create a new Will through LegalWills.ca<\/a>, the new Will automatically revokes the lawyer-drafted Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n Inform the lawyer that a new Will has been created so they can update their records<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n When Should I Change My Will?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Review and update your Will whenever any of these events occur:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n Marriage<\/strong>; in most common law provinces, marriage automatically revokes your Will, so a new Will is essential<\/li>\n\n\n\n Divorce<\/strong>; provisions naming your ex-spouse are typically voided, but the rest of the Will may not reflect your new circumstances<\/li>\n\n\n\n Birth or adoption of a child<\/strong>, you may need to add a guardian appointment<\/a> and update your distribution plan<\/li>\n\n\n\n Death of a beneficiary or executor<\/strong>, your backup plans may need updating<\/li>\n\n\n\n Significant change in assets<\/strong>, buying or selling property, receiving an inheritance, major investments<\/li>\n\n\n\n Moving to a different province<\/strong>, provincial laws differ on execution requirements and intestacy rules<\/li>\n\n\n\n Change in relationships<\/strong>, new partner, estrangement, reconciliation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nAt minimum, review your Will every 3\u20135 years even if no major changes have occurred. For more detail, see our guide on updating a Will<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Happens to My Old Will When I Create a New One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n A properly drafted new Will includes a clause stating: “I revoke all previous Wills and codicils.” This automatically cancels every previous Will and codicil. However, best practice is to also:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n Physically destroy the old Will<\/strong>, shred or burn all copies of the previous signed Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n Notify anyone who held a copy<\/strong>, if your lawyer, executor, or family member has a copy of the old Will, inform them it has been replaced<\/li>\n\n\n\n Update your Will registration<\/strong>, if registered with the Canada Will Registry<\/a>, update the record<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n Destroying the old Will prevents any confusion if both documents are found after your death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n How much does it cost to change a Will?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n At LegalWills.ca, updating your Will is free; unlimited updates are included. If using a lawyer, updates typically cost $200\u2013$500+. See our cost of a Will<\/a> guide for details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Can I change my executor without rewriting the entire Will?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Technically, you could use a codicil to change just the executor. But it is better to create a new Will, it takes the same amount of effort (signing and witnessing) and produces a cleaner, more reliable document.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Does my new Will need to be signed by the same witnesses?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n No. Any two eligible adults can serve as witnesses. They do not need to be the same people who witnessed the original Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What if I made my Will with a different online service or a lawyer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n You can create a new Will at LegalWills.ca regardless of how your previous Will was prepared. The new Will revokes all previous Wills automatically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TL;DR<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The best way to change your Will is to create a new one. A new Will automatically revokes all previous Wills when it contains the standard revocation clause. Do not handwrite changes on your existing Will, this can invalidate the entire document. A codicil (formal amendment) is an option but is outdated and not recommended. At LegalWills.ca, updating your Will is free and takes only a few minutes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Originally published: September 29, 2021 | Last updated: November 26, 2025<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you need to change your Will, the recommended approach is to create a completely new Will. A properly drafted new Will contains a revocation clause that automatically cancels all previous Wills. This is simpler, safer, and more reliable than any other method of changing your Will. At LegalWills.ca<\/a>, updating and reprinting your Will is free and takes approximately 10 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Just Cross Out or Handwrite Changes on My Existing Will?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
$\"Handwritten$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
No, never handwrite changes on a signed Will.<\/strong> This is the most common mistake people make when trying to update their Will, and it can have serious consequences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
The changes may be invalid:<\/strong> In most provinces, handwritten alterations made after signing are not legally effective unless they are initialled by the testator and both original witnesses, which rarely happens<\/li>\n\n\n\n
The entire Will may be invalidated:<\/strong> Courts may question whether the alterations indicate the testator intended to revoke the original Will, potentially leaving you intestate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
It creates grounds for a challenge:<\/strong> Any alteration raises questions about who made the change, when, and whether the testator had capacity at the time; opening the door to a Will contest<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
It looks unprofessional:<\/strong> A Will with cross-outs and handwritten additions may not be taken seriously by banks, land registries, or other institutions that require the Will for asset transfers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The message is clear: do not alter a signed Will by hand. If you need to make changes, create a new Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Is a Codicil and Should I Use One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A codicil<\/a> is a formal amendment to an existing Will. It is a separate legal document that modifies specific provisions of the original Will while leaving the rest intact. A codicil must be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
In writing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Signed by the testator<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Witnessed by two witnesses (same requirements as the original Will)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
While codicils are legally valid, they are not recommended<\/strong> for several reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Codicil<\/th> New Will<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Creates confusion, must be read alongside the original Will<\/td> Standalone document, clear and complete<\/td><\/tr>
Can contradict the original Will, creating ambiguity<\/td> Replaces the original entirely, no ambiguity<\/td><\/tr>
Both documents must be found and submitted for probate<\/td> Only one document needed<\/td><\/tr>
Multiple codicils compound confusion<\/td> Always current and complete<\/td><\/tr>
Requires same signing formalities as a new Will<\/td> Same signing formalities, no harder than a codicil<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Since a codicil requires the same formalities as a new Will (signing, witnessing) and creates potential complications, there is no practical advantage to using one. A new Will is always the better option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Do I Create a New Will to Replace My Old One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The process depends on how your original Will was created:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your original Will was created at LegalWills.ca:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Log in to your account at LegalWills.ca<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
Make the necessary changes to your Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Print the updated Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Sign and have it witnessed<\/a>, the same two-witness requirement applies<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Destroy the old signed Will (shred or burn it)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Store the new Will securely and inform your executor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
This process is free at LegalWills.ca, there is no charge to update your Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your original Will was created by a lawyer:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
You can return to the same lawyer (fees will apply; typically $200\u2013$500+ for updates)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
You can create a new Will through LegalWills.ca<\/a>, the new Will automatically revokes the lawyer-drafted Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Inform the lawyer that a new Will has been created so they can update their records<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
When Should I Change My Will?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Review and update your Will whenever any of these events occur:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Marriage<\/strong>; in most common law provinces, marriage automatically revokes your Will, so a new Will is essential<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Divorce<\/strong>; provisions naming your ex-spouse are typically voided, but the rest of the Will may not reflect your new circumstances<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Birth or adoption of a child<\/strong>, you may need to add a guardian appointment<\/a> and update your distribution plan<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Death of a beneficiary or executor<\/strong>, your backup plans may need updating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Significant change in assets<\/strong>, buying or selling property, receiving an inheritance, major investments<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Moving to a different province<\/strong>, provincial laws differ on execution requirements and intestacy rules<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Change in relationships<\/strong>, new partner, estrangement, reconciliation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nAt minimum, review your Will every 3\u20135 years even if no major changes have occurred. For more detail, see our guide on updating a Will<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Happens to My Old Will When I Create a New One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A properly drafted new Will includes a clause stating: “I revoke all previous Wills and codicils.” This automatically cancels every previous Will and codicil. However, best practice is to also:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Physically destroy the old Will<\/strong>, shred or burn all copies of the previous signed Will<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Notify anyone who held a copy<\/strong>, if your lawyer, executor, or family member has a copy of the old Will, inform them it has been replaced<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Update your Will registration<\/strong>, if registered with the Canada Will Registry<\/a>, update the record<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Destroying the old Will prevents any confusion if both documents are found after your death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How much does it cost to change a Will?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
At LegalWills.ca, updating your Will is free; unlimited updates are included. If using a lawyer, updates typically cost $200\u2013$500+. See our cost of a Will<\/a> guide for details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can I change my executor without rewriting the entire Will?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Technically, you could use a codicil to change just the executor. But it is better to create a new Will, it takes the same amount of effort (signing and witnessing) and produces a cleaner, more reliable document.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Does my new Will need to be signed by the same witnesses?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
No. Any two eligible adults can serve as witnesses. They do not need to be the same people who witnessed the original Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What if I made my Will with a different online service or a lawyer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You can create a new Will at LegalWills.ca regardless of how your previous Will was prepared. The new Will revokes all previous Wills automatically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Just Cross Out or Handwrite Changes on My Existing Will?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNo, never handwrite changes on a signed Will.<\/strong> This is the most common mistake people make when trying to update their Will, and it can have serious consequences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do I Create a New Will to Replace My Old One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe process depends on how your original Will was created:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your original Will was created by a lawyer:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nYou can return to the same lawyer (fees will apply; typically $200\u2013$500+ for updates)<\/li>\n\n\n\n

When Should I Change My Will?<\/h2>\n\n\n\nReview and update your Will whenever any of these events occur:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How much does it cost to change a Will?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nAt LegalWills.ca, updating your Will is free; unlimited updates are included. If using a lawyer, updates typically cost $200\u2013$500+. See our cost of a Will<\/a> guide for details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does my new Will need to be signed by the same witnesses?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nNo. Any two eligible adults can serve as witnesses. They do not need to be the same people who witnessed the original Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do I Create a New Will to Replace My Old One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The process depends on how your original Will was created:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How much does it cost to change a Will?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
At LegalWills.ca, updating your Will is free; unlimited updates are included. If using a lawyer, updates typically cost $200\u2013$500+. See our cost of a Will<\/a> guide for details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does my new Will need to be signed by the same witnesses?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
No. Any two eligible adults can serve as witnesses. They do not need to be the same people who witnessed the original Will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n