Federal · Taxes & CRA · Difficulty: Professional guidance often recommended

Request a CRA clearance certificate

A clearance certificate confirms the estate’s taxes are paid. Distributing assets without one can leave the executor personally liable for unpaid tax.

Professional guidance often recommended. Consider confirming legal, tax, court, or other professional requirements before acting.

Who usually needs this

  • Executor
  • Personal representative

When to review

Before distribution

Documents commonly needed

  • All assessed returns
  • Statement of assets and distribution plan
  • Will or grant

Life Steward does not collect or store these documents.

Common issues

  • Executors who distribute before clearance can be personally responsible for amounts owing.
  • Processing can take several months: plan the estate timeline around it.

Official sources

Last reviewed 2026-07-10

The Life Steward Resource Centre is provided for general information and navigation only. It is not legal, tax, financial, insurance, medical, or professional advice. Confirm current requirements and deadlines with the appropriate organization or professional before acting.