Do you know any seniors being taken advantage of ?
If you or a senior you know is being abused and you think it should be reported, contact the BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support at their toll-free hotline 1-866-437-1940 or visit their website http://bcceas.ca/. As notaries, we are always on the lookout for seniors (elder) abuse and unfortunately we see signs of it […]
WESA Changes – Marriage
In a previous blog post, we discussed the general changes to wills contained in the new Wills, Estates and Succession Act that took effect March 31, 2014. In this post, we look at the changes involving marriage, separation and spousal inheritance, and how these changes should trigger you to revisit your will or to make […]
WESA Changes
The Government of British Columbia has been working over the past few years to overhaul succession planning legislation in an effort to modernize old laws. The most recent Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA), which took effect March 31, 2014, presents some fairly significant changes to the former Wills Act. What are the changes that […]
A Will for Every Family
Modern families come in many different forms. One parent, two parents, extended family, with kids and without. No matter what members make up your family, they need—and deserve—financial protection. Despite the fact that only half of the adult population of British Columbia have wills in place, this is one of the most important things you […]
What is the significance of having notarized?
A Notary Public’s seal indicates on a document indicates it has been notarized. But what does it mean to have something notarized and when is it needed? Not all documents require notarization, but many do. For instance, banks, other financial institutions and the court system often require documents to be notarized. It’s the Notary Public’s […]
What is a Consent to Travel Letter?
With spring break fast approaching, many British Columbians are planning and looking forward to trips away. If your children are not travelling with both parents or if they’re travelling with another adult or family member, there are some travel documents you may want to consider. The Government of Canada strongly recommends a consent to travel […]
This One Change in the 2014 B.C. Budget Could Save you $7500
The government of British Columbia has introduced changes to the Property Transfer Tax in today’s Budget. From the 2014 Budget press release: Many British Columbians buying their first home will pay less Property Transfer Tax, as the Province is increasing the threshold for the first time homebuyers program to $475,000 from $425,000, an exemption that can save […]
Following through on your New Years Resolution to make a will
Was making a will one of your 2014 New Years’ Resolutions? By February, it’s easy to forget the promises you made to yourself early in the New Year. Or maybe it’s been on your resolution list for a few years now. You’re not alone —roughly half of British Columbians don’t have a will in place. […]
Why is having a Power of Attorney important?
From Chilliwack Progress – Ask An Expert section Many people, especially people with spouses, don’t really think they need a Power of Attorney. If one is unable to act on their own behalf, many assume that a spouse or family member can just step in and take care of legal and financial affairs such as […]
How can a Notary help with your real estate transaction?
Navigating real estate purchases and sales involving large sums of money can be an intimidating prospect. Your notary’s job is to take the guesswork and uncertainty out of the process. Notaries public can help with many non-contentious legal matters, including conveyancing––the purchase, sale and mortgage of property. What are the three main things your Notary […]
