Write Your Own Will - What Is A Will


Have you taken the time to write your own will? Those who don't think about sitting down to write your own will often haven't considered the consequences to the fate of their property, as well as the headaches created for their relatives and loved ones. Writing your own will isn't a topic most people like to think about. However, taking the time to write your own will can prevent your estate from going to unintended heirs and extra burdens being caused for your surviving family. US Legal Forms offers professionally drafted will forms for each state that allow you to easily write your own will inexpensively, without the need for paying expensive legal fees.


You can let your final wishes be known and minimize the potential for disputes when you write your own will. By being able to rely on the instructions you create when you write your own will, your can save your relatives and loved ones unnecessary delay, expense, and heartache. The following is provided as a helpful guide to motivate you if you haven't taken the time to write your own will yet:

Simple steps for writing your own will:

  • 1. Typically, when you write your own will you will start out with your name, residence, and also name any spouse or children.
  • 2. When you write your own will, you minimize the chances that your property and belongings will go to undesired heirs. This is done when you write your own will by identifying your homestead if you own a home, and listing your assets, along with the heirs you wish to receive the property. A person may also named to receive any remaining property not identified as part of your estate when you write your own will, referred to as your residuary estate.
  • 3. You will choose and name a trusted person to be your executor who manages the settling of your estate. It's okay for the executor you name to also be named as a beneficiary when you write your own will.
  • 4. If you have children, you can appoint a guardian and/or trustee when you write your own will by listing the person's name and address. In the forms US Legal Forms offers to write your own will, you can simply identify the person appointed and the duration of any trust distributions (ex., until a child reaches 18), and all of the wordy important terms are already provided for you. Our forms can also be modified in Word however you wish when you write your own will.
  • 5. Other optional terms can be included when you write your own will, such as for how you wish your final remains to be handled and any instructions for final services.
  • 6. Lastly, when you write your own will you'll need to sign it in front of two witnesses and a notary. Depending on your state, a self-proving affidavit may also be included, to be completed at signing.

When you write your own will, you let your final wishes be known and minimize the potential for disputes. By being able to rely on the instructions you create when you write your own will, you can save your relatives and loved ones unnecessary delay, expense, and hardships. If you haven't taken the time to write your own will yet, hopefully you can now see how simple it is with our printable will forms. Don't delay any further, start writing your own will with US Legal Forms!

Have you taken the time to write your own will? Those who don't think about sitting down to write your own will often haven't considered the consequences to the fate of their property, as well as the headaches created for their relatives and loved ones. Writing your own will isn't a topic most people like to think about. However, taking the time to write your own will can prevent your estate from going to unintended heirs and extra burdens being caused for your surviving family. US Legal Forms offers professionally drafted will forms for each state that allow you to easily write your own will inexpensively, without the need for paying expensive legal fees.


You can let your final wishes be known and minimize the potential for disputes when you write your own will. By being able to rely on the instructions you create when you write your own will, your can save your relatives and loved ones unnecessary delay, expense, and heartache. The following is provided as a helpful guide to motivate you if you haven't taken the time to write your own will yet:

Simple steps for writing your own will:

  • 1. Typically, when you write your own will you will start out with your name, residence, and also name any spouse or children.
  • 2. When you write your own will, you minimize the chances that your property and belongings will go to undesired heirs. This is done when you write your own will by identifying your homestead if you own a home, and listing your assets, along with the heirs you wish to receive the property. A person may also named to receive any remaining property not identified as part of your estate when you write your own will, referred to as your residuary estate.
  • 3. You will choose and name a trusted person to be your executor who manages the settling of your estate. It's okay for the executor you name to also be named as a beneficiary when you write your own will.
  • 4. If you have children, you can appoint a guardian and/or trustee when you write your own will by listing the person's name and address. In the forms US Legal Forms offers to write your own will, you can simply identify the person appointed and the duration of any trust distributions (ex., until a child reaches 18), and all of the wordy important terms are already provided for you. Our forms can also be modified in Word however you wish when you write your own will.
  • 5. Other optional terms can be included when you write your own will, such as for how you wish your final remains to be handled and any instructions for final services.
  • 6. Lastly, when you write your own will you'll need to sign it in front of two witnesses and a notary. Depending on your state, a self-proving affidavit may also be included, to be completed at signing.

When you write your own will, you let your final wishes be known and minimize the potential for disputes. By being able to rely on the instructions you create when you write your own will, you can save your relatives and loved ones unnecessary delay, expense, and hardships. If you haven't taken the time to write your own will yet, hopefully you can now see how simple it is with our printable will forms. Don't delay any further, start writing your own will with US Legal Forms!

Top Questions about Printable Blank Will Form

  • Does a living will need to be notarized in MN?

    In Minnesota, a living will does not necessarily need to be notarized to be valid. However, having it notarized can help clarify your medical wishes and ensure they are honored. If you plan to Write Your Own Will, consider including a living will to address your healthcare preferences as well.

  • What is required for a will to be valid in Minnesota?

    For a will to be valid in Minnesota, it must be in writing and signed by the testator. In addition, it should be witnessed by at least two people who are not beneficiaries to strengthen its legitimacy. When you choose to Write Your Own Will, following these guidelines ensures your wishes are legally respected.

  • Can I write my own will and have it notarized in MN?

    Yes, in Minnesota, you can write your own will and have it notarized. After completing your will, consider having it signed in front of a notary to help validate its authenticity. This process can provide peace of mind as you work to Write Your Own Will.

  • Will the bank notarize a will?

    Many banks offer notary services, but policies can vary by institution. It's recommended to call ahead to confirm if they provide this service for wills. You may find it helpful to notarize your will after taking the step to Write Your Own Will to add credibility and security.

  • What voids a will in Washington State?

    A will may be voided in Washington State if it is proven to have been made under fraud or undue influence. Additionally, if the testator lacked the mental capacity at the time of signing or if the will does not meet legal requirements, it can be declared invalid. Understanding these factors is crucial when you attempt to Write Your Own Will.

  • What is the biggest mistake in a will?

    One of the biggest mistakes in a will is failing to update it after significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. These changes can alter your wishes significantly, so it's vital to review and revise your will, especially if you choose to Write Your Own Will. Staying current prevents unexpected outcomes for your loved ones.

  • What are the requirements for a will to be valid in Washington State?

    In Washington State, a valid will must be in writing and signed by the testator. If you decide to Write Your Own Will, remember it should typically be witnessed by two individuals who are not beneficiaries. This ensures that your intentions are honored and legally recognized.

  • How do I write my own simple will?

    To write your own simple will, start by clearly stating your intentions regarding asset distribution. List your assets and designate beneficiaries, ensuring to include names and relationships. Several online resources, including USLegalForms, can guide you through the process when you choose to Write Your Own Will.

  • How to determine if a will is valid?

    To determine if a will is valid, you must check if it meets state requirements and is properly signed. In many states, including Washington, the testator must be of sound mind and at least 18 years old when they Write Your Own Will. Additionally, it should ideally be witnessed by two individuals to strengthen its validity.

  • Does a will in Washington need to be notarized?

    In Washington, a will does not need to be notarized to be valid. However, having your will notarized can add an extra layer of assurance, especially if you decide to Write Your Own Will. Notarization can help prevent potential disputes by proving the authenticity of your signature.

Tips for Preparing Write Your Own Will

  1. The content of your will isn’t set in stone. No matter what turns of events you face throughout your life, be it marriage, divorce, loss of a family member, or health problems, you can always make changes to the last will and testament you drafted and signed. How you need to do that is defined by the legislation of each state.
  2. Some states impose an inheritance tax. This is something you need to take into consideration before preparing Write Your Own Will in order to prevent any legal penalties from the Internal Revenue Service in the future. Exactly how much recipients are obliged to pay out in estate or inheritance tax is defined by the state you live in.
  3. Your wishes laid out in the document can be contested. While preparing Write Your Own Will, consider the following scenario: if the recipients that you mention in your legal will feel that you disinherited them or assume that you've been tricked into signing it, they might contest it with the court. Other commonly popular grounds for contesting a will are an poorly carried out document or the incapacitation of the testator.
  4. Check intestacy laws and regulations before drafting a will. Intestacy means passing away without leaving a will. This is when the court starts to deal with inheritance issues after your death. In case the share of assets specified by your state laws meets your needs, then you can certainly postpone or not create it at all. Nevertheless, to protect yourself from any risks of a family feud or major arguments, it's very advised to create a will. You can do it and get the required Write Your Own Will online using US Legal Forms, one of the largest libraries of expertly drafted and frequently updated state-specific legal paperwork.