Estates in Québec: steps, liquidator, heirs and documents

Settling an estate means looking after a deceased person's property and debts until they are handed to the heirs. Here are the main steps in Québec, in general terms, with the official sources.

The liquidator's role

The liquidator (formerly the "executor") administers the estate. They are usually named in the will. Without a will or a designation, Québec.ca explains how one is chosen. A named person may also decline the role or be replaced under the official rules.

The will

The first question is whether there is a will, and which is the most recent. Searching the registers of the Chambre des notaires and the Barreau du Québec helps find it. If there is no will, rules set by law apply.

The inventory and records

The liquidator draws up the inventory of property and debts and keeps supporting documents. Québec.ca describes the inventory and the closing notice. Keeping organized records from the start saves a lot of backtracking.

Debts and assets

Estate debts are generally paid before property is handed over. Heirs may accept or refuse the estate; this choice has consequences and follows specific forms and deadlines. Before deciding, consult a notary or a lawyer.

The heirs

Heirs are named in the will or, failing that, by law. Some situations call for more care: a minor heir, an incapable heir, an heir who died before the person, or an heir who cannot be found.

Taxes: check with professionals

Income tax returns may need to be filed for the deceased and for the estate, in Québec and federally. Revenu Québec and the Canada Revenue Agency explain the liquidator's obligations. An accountant or tax specialist can help depending on your situation.

The general steps

Find the will and confirm who the liquidator is
Gather the documents and draw up the inventory
Notify organizations and manage the accounts
Pay debts and file the required returns
Account for the estate and hand property to the heirs

Frequently asked questions

Who is the liquidator of an estate?

Usually the person named in the will. Without a will, Québec.ca explains how one is designated.

Can I refuse to be liquidator?

A named person may decline or ask to be replaced, under the rules described on Québec.ca.

Do heirs have to pay the debts?

It depends, among other things, on whether the estate is accepted or refused and how it is settled. This point deserves the advice of a notary or a lawyer.

How long does an estate take?

There is no single length: it varies with the property, debts, tax steps and agreement among heirs.

PASSARA guides to go further

Official sources

PASSARA helps you organize what comes next, one step at a time

Are you the liquidator? PASSARA organizes the estate's steps, inventory and documents, one step at a time.

See the liquidator path

The other PASSARA guides

Content last checked: October 12, 2026. Official information can change: always consult the official sources linked on this page.

PASSARA provides general information and does not replace the advice of a notary, lawyer, tax specialist or other qualified professional.

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