How Much Can an Executor Be Paid in Ontario?

Under Ontario's Trustee Act, an estate trustee (executor) is entitled to fair and reasonable compensation for their work, unless the will says otherwise.

The usual guideline

• About 2.5% of receipts (money coming into the estate)
• About 2.5% of disbursements (money paid out)
• Sometimes a care and management fee on assets managed over a long time

These are guidelines, not fixed rules. Courts also consider the size and complexity of the estate, the time spent, the skill needed and the results.

If the will sets it

A will can set the executor's compensation, or say that a gift to the executor is in place of compensation.

Approval

• Beneficiaries can sign off on the accounts and compensation.
• If they don't agree, the trustee can ask the court to pass the accounts.

Taxes

Executor compensation is generally taxable income to the executor.

More than one executor

Co-executors usually share the compensation.

Keep records

Detailed records of time and work make approval much easier.

Sources

• Trustee Act (Ontario)
• Choosing an executor (NEO guide)

Read next: Funeral Wishes: Who Decides in Ontario?

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.

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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.