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A will can be amended or revoked by a testator. An amend- ment to a will is called a codicil. In order to revoke your will or create a codicil, a testator must meet the same require- ments as if he were creating a will. Specifically, a codicil must be in writing and signed by the testator.

Handwritten changes are known as holographic codicils, and they aren't legal in every state. Where they are allowed, they can be confusing and lead to legal challenges. Usually, the best way to make a simple change to a will is to go back to the lawyer or online service that prepared your original will.

Failure to Follow Proper Execution Requirements Failure to follow these requirements can result in your wishes being voided. In Colorado, for a will to be valid, it must be in writing and signed by the testator or the person making the will in the presence of two witnesses. These witnesses must also sign the will.

A will can be amended or revoked by a testator. An amend- ment to a will is called a codicil. In order to revoke your will or create a codicil, a testator must meet the same require- ments as if he were creating a will. Specifically, a codicil must be in writing and signed by the testator.

A codicil is like a legal "P.S." to your will. To create a codicil, you write down what you want to remove or add to your existing will, sign it, have two witnesses sign it (as you did with your original will), and then keep it with your will. After your death, your two documents will be read and interpreted together.

Stat. § 15-11-502 (2023).) Additionally, Colorado allows you to make your will "self-proving" and you'll need to go to a notary if you want to do that. A self-proving will speeds up probate because the court can accept the will without contacting the witnesses who signed it.

State-Specific Requirements California: Needs two witnesses but does not require notarization.

You do not have to use an attorney to prepare the codicil. You can use an online provider such as , or you can go to an office supply store and buy a template to use. You may hand write it yourself as well. The codicil must be executed in the same way as your original Will.

Handwritten Changes to a Will are Risky Unless it is 100 percent in the handwriting of the decedent (known as a holographic Will), it needs to be witnessed by at least two individuals, and is always a good practice to sign before a notary.