Bill 49, the Technical Amendments (Estates, Unclaimed Bodies and Related Matters) Act (2025), received assent in the Yukon Legislative Assembly today.
Bill 49 amended the following Acts:
- The Estate Administration Act determines how estates are resolved when a person dies without a will. Changes to the Act allow the Government of Yukon to direct the respectful burial of individuals who die without a valid will and with no next of kin.
- The changes to the Enduring Powers of Attorney and Related Amendments Act (2020) gives Yukoners more options when planning their estates, making it easier for Yukoners to draft an enduring power of attorney without the need to hire a lawyer. This reduces costs for Yukoners and makes estate planning easier and more accessible.
- Bill 49 also makes minor amendments to the Coroners Act and the Funeral Directors Act.
Having a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected. I’m pleased that our government has made estate planning and administration simpler and more affordable, while at the same time supporting the public guardian and trustee and the respectful treatment of Yukoners who die without a will and with no next of kin.
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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50 and 62 per cent of all Canadians die without a will, with a further 24 to 27 per cent dying with a will that is out of date and potentially no longer valid.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.
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Each year, approximately six to 12 individuals’ bodies remain unclaimed each year after their death in the Yukon.
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An enduring power of attorney is a legal tool that lets a person (called the donor) choose someone they trust to manage their money and property if they are unable to do it themselves in the future.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]
Francis Lefebvre
Communications, Justice
867-667-8144
[email protected]