Dividing Property

If you decide to separate or divorce, it can be very challenging to determine who should get what. Many of the things you acquire while married or living together often become joined, especially if you have been together for a long time. Small and sentimental items also matter, even if they are not worth much money.

The provinces and territories are responsible for laws that set out the rules for dividing property when couples divorce or separate. These laws may vary in different parts of Canada.

The term "property" may include a variety of items, such as:

• your home
• furniture and other contents of your home
• other real estate
• pensions from employment
• Canada or Quebec Pension Plan credits
• RRSPs
• Investments
• bank accounts
• cash
• pets.

You may wish to seek legal advice to ensure that you receive the share of the property to which you are entitled to according to the law. Information on property law is available from your provincial or territorial Minister of Justice or Attorney General.

In addition, family justice services such as mediation may be available in your province or territory to help you agree about how to divide your property.