Canadian households report financial strain despite higher administrative activity
A report from Willful indicates that while more Canadians are completing financial tasks this year, rising costs have left 40% feeling worse off than in 2025.
According to the 2026 'Great Delay' report released by online estate planning platform Willful, the proportion of Canadians completing financial to-do lists grew to 77% this year. Despite this, 40% of respondents report their financial health has deteriorated compared to the previous year, as double-digit increases in grocery and fuel prices force 47% of households to dip into savings to manage daily expenses.
For the first time, the study analyzed the 'sandwich generation'—those supporting both children and aging parents. This demographic is significantly more likely to defer long-term planning despite carrying higher debt loads, such as mortgages. Approximately 65% of this group lack a will, creating potential legal and financial instability for their families.
Nationally, 58% of Canadians still do not have a will, a figure that has remained stagnant over the past three years. CEO Erin Bury noted that while citizens are focused on immediate economic pressures, the deferral of estate planning leaves families vulnerable. The findings highlight a disconnect between urgent financial management and the essential long-term security provided by legal documentation.