Contracts With People Under 18 in Ontario

Under Ontario's Age of Majority and Accountability Act, a person becomes an adult at 18. Contracts with people under 18 (minors) are treated specially.

The general rule

• A contract with a minor is generally voidable by the minor: they can choose to get out of it.
• The adult side usually can't enforce it against the minor.

Exceptions

• Necessaries: goods or services a minor really needs, at a fair price.
• Contracts for the minor's benefit, such as some employment or apprenticeship contracts.

After turning 18

A person who keeps using the contract after turning 18 may be found to have ratified it.

For businesses

• Ask for proof of age for credit, financing and big purchases.
• Have a parent or guardian sign or guarantee, if appropriate.

Parents

Parents aren't automatically responsible for a minor's contract, but they are if they signed it or guaranteed it.

Sources

• Age of Majority and Accountability Act
• Consumer Protection Act, 2002

Read next: Cancellation Fees and Penalties: Can a Contract Make You Pay?

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 16 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Unsplash: A university degree certificate with a red seal and two signatures · a man holding a piece of paper.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.