Use case

Writing a Will when you have no children

A simple will lets you direct where your assets go after you die — to a partner, family member, or charity of your choice. Without a will, state intestacy laws decide who inherits, which may not reflect your wishes, especially if you're unmarried or estranged from family.

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Single or Divorced

Last Will and Testament for Single Person with No Children

Create a legally binding document to outline how your assets will be distributed after your death, ensuring your wishes are honored.

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Single or Divorced

Last Will and Testament for Divorced Person Not Remarried with No Children

Create a valid will that reflects your wishes after divorce, ensuring your estate is managed as you desire.

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Married

Last Will and Testament for Divorced Person Not Remarried with No Children

Create a valid will that reflects your wishes after divorce, ensuring your estate is managed as you desire.

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Living Together

Mutual Wills containing Last Will and Testaments for Man and Woman living together not Married with No Children

Create a mutual will for partners living together to designate how your assets will be distributed upon death.

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Living Together

Mutual Wills Package of Last Wills and Testaments for Man and Woman living together not Married with Adult Children

Prepare mutual wills to outline your estate plans with your partner; crucial for unwed couples with adult children.

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Living Together

Mutual Wills or Last Will and Testaments for Man and Woman living together, not Married with Minor Children

Create a legally binding will for unmarried partners with minor children, ensuring clear distribution of assets and guardianship.

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Why this matters

Your partner may get nothing

Unmarried partners have no automatic inheritance rights under state law. Without a will, your estate may pass entirely to parents or siblings.

Avoid intestacy surprises

Intestacy laws vary by state and often produce results you wouldn't choose — property may go to distant relatives instead of the people who matter most.

Name your executor

Your will designates who manages your estate — pays your debts, closes accounts, and distributes assets according to your wishes.

How it works in 3 steps

Step 1
List your assets and beneficiaries
Identify what you own and who you want to receive each item. Name an alternate beneficiary in case your primary choice predeceases you.
Step 2
Choose an executor
Pick a trusted person to carry out your will — a friend, family member, or professional fiduciary. Name an alternate executor as well.
Step 3
Sign with two witnesses
Sign your completed will in front of two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries. Both witnesses must also sign. Store the original in a safe place.

Notarization guidance

Notarization is not required to make a will valid — two adult witnesses (non-beneficiaries) are the legal requirement in all states except Louisiana. Adding a self-proving affidavit (notarized) allows the will to be admitted to probate without witness testimony and is recommended for convenience.

FAQs

Notarization is not required to make a will valid — witnesses are the legal requirement. However, a notarized self-proving affidavit makes probate faster and is recommended.

Not sure which forms you need?

Find the right will form for your situation — single, married, divorced, or unmarried couples with no children.

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Glossary of terms

Simple willA basic will that names beneficiaries, an executor, and specific bequests — appropriate for straightforward estates without minor children.
IntestacyDying without a valid will. State intestacy laws determine who inherits, often disregarding unmarried partners entirely.
BeneficiaryA person or organization named to receive assets from your estate.
Residuary estateEverything left in your estate after specific bequests and debts are paid — typically left to a primary beneficiary.
Self-proving affidavitA notarized statement attached to the will confirming it was properly executed, allowing probate without live witness testimony.

Related use cases

Use caseWriting a Will when you have minor childrenGet form Use caseAvoiding probate with a Living TrustGet form Use caseReducing estate taxes with an Irrevocable TrustGet form

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