The Wealthy Barber Podcast #32 — Leanne Kaufman: The Do’s and Don’ts of Estate Planning
22 snips
Nov 18, 2025 Leanne Kaufman, President and CEO of RBC Royal Trust and a lawyer specializing in estate planning, shares invaluable insights. She emphasizes why every Canadian needs a will and the real costs involved in securing one. The conversation delves into the qualities of an ideal executor and the pros and cons of choosing family members versus corporate executors. Leanne also highlights the significance of a ‘When I Die’ binder to ease the process for loved ones and discusses the complexities surrounding joint ownership and trusts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Everyone Needs A Will
- Get a will regardless of age or asset level because intestacy laws rigidly dictate distributions.
- A will prevents court-appointed administrators and allows planning for minors and charities.
Budget Realistically For A Will
- Expect to pay roughly $1,000+ for a lawyer-drafted will; complex cases cost more.
- Use conservative online wills only for very simple estates if you refuse legal advice.
Choose Executors Who Want The Job
- Ask any proposed executor if they want the job and can commit to the work required.
- Prioritize attention to detail, financial acumen, and local availability when choosing them.