What Every Canadian Needs to Know About Passing Down Wealth

Canada doesn't have a formal death tax — but that doesn't mean death is simple or inexpensive. When someone passes away, taxes can be triggered immediately through deemed disposition, and on top of that, probate fees may apply depending on the province. Many Canadians confuse these two costs, and that confusion can lead to serious planning gaps.   On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down what probate actually is, how probate fees vary across Canada, what assets flow through probate, and what strategies can reduce delays and unnecessary costs. More importantly, they explain why probate isn't just about fees — it's about timing, privacy, executor stress, and making life easier for your family when they're already dealing with loss.   Show notes:   00:00 - Introduction: Why probate matters   00:23 - Canada doesn't have a formal death tax   02:41 - Deemed disposition explained   04:04 - What probate actually is   04:45 - What assets trigger probate   05:30 - What bypasses probate   06:12 - Why life insurance is different   06:31 - The real impact of probate delays   09:43 - Probate fees by province   13:06 - Simple probate reduction strategies   16:05 - Joint ownership risks   18:22 - Advanced planning strategies   21:27 - Real-world example   24:47 - Probate planning checklist FIND US ON:   INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/   TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en   LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it. The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.