David, a resident of British Columbia, passes away with a will. His estate is valued at $1.5 million, comprising a principal residence, bank accounts, and investment portfolios, all solely in his name. What are the approximate probate fees payable in British Columbia?

Question: David, a resident of British Columbia, passes away with a will. His estate is valued at $1.5 million, comprising a principal residence, bank accounts, and investment portfolios, all solely in his name. What are the approximate probate fees payable in British Columbia?

Answer options:

• Approximately $15,000
• Approximately $21,000 ✅ Approximately $23,700
• Approximately $18,000

Correct answer: Approximately $23,700

Explanation: In British Columbia, probate fees are $0 for the first $25,000, $6 per $1,000 for the next $25,000 (up to $50,000), and $14 per $1,000 for amounts over $50,000. For a $1.5 million estate, this is ($25,000 / $1,000 * $6) + ($1,450,000 / $1,000 * $14) = $150 + $20,300 = $20,450. The correct option is the closest value. This is the cost for obtaining Letters Probate from the court.