The Government of Yukon is proposing to amend four Acts through Bill 49 tabled in the Yukon Legislative Assembly today. If passed, these changes aim to provide greater accessibility, fairness and support for Yukoners and their families.
Bill 49, the Technical Amendments (Estates, Unclaimed Bodies and Other Matters) Act (2025) includes amendments to the Estate Administration Act and minor changes needed to bring the Enduring Powers of Attorney and Related Amendments Act (2020) into force. It also includes minor amendments to the Coroners Act and the Funeral Directors Act.
The Estate Administration Act determines how estates are resolved when a person dies without a valid will. The proposed changes to the Act will allow the Government of Yukon to direct the respectful burial of individuals who die without a valid will and with no next of kin. It would also clarify the role of the Government of Yukon in certain estate matters.
The changes to the Enduring Powers of Attorney and Related Amendments Act (2020) will give Yukoners more options when planning their estates, such as drafting an enduring power of attorney without the need to hire a lawyer. Enduring powers of attorney are estate planning tools that allow an individual, known as a donor, to decide who they want to manage their money and property when the donor becomes unable to do so. This would limit costs for Yukoners and make estate planning more accessible.
These amendments will make estate planning easier while streamlining the process of resolving the estates of people dying without a valid will.
The Government of Yukon would like to remind Yukoners of the importance of having a valid and current will. The Government of Yukon encourages Yukoners to prepare a will and discuss their wishes with loved ones about what happens after they die or if they become incapable of managing their estate.
The proposed bill will allow for easier estate planning and administration while supporting the respectful treatment of Yukoners who die without a valid will and with no next of kin. These legislative changes highlight the importance of preparing a will and powers of attorney to clearly communicate Yukoners’ wishes for how they want their estate administered.
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National studies show that between 50 and 62 per cent of all Canadians die without a will, with a further 24 to 27 per cent dying with a will that is out of date and potentially no longer valid.
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On average, more than 160 Yukoners die each year without a will.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]
Francis Lefebvre
Communications, Justice
867-667-8144
[email protected]