How to Write a Will that is Legally Binding.
The testator, the person making the will, must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. The will must be in writing. While about half the states allow handwritten, also called holographic, wills, a pre-printed or typewritten document is preferred. The testator must sign and date the will in front of witnesses who are at least 18 years old.
Important Note: Refer to the guidelines on our main page: How to Write a Will - where different aspects of wills are explained that can assist you in compiling your last will and testament, or to complete the sample legal document provided here.
How to Write a Simple Will: Executor of the Will While you’re free to name a family member or friend as the executor of the will, you can name anyone.
Any adult can write a will, provided they have not been declared incompetent by a court or legal authority. Your will is a deeply personal document. It describes your final wishes and instructs the readers about how you want your property distributed.
How to Write the Year. Years should be expressed as numerals except at the beginning of a sentence. Most style guides agree that beginning a sentence with a numeral is poor style, so years placed at the beginning of a sentence should be written out as words.
Learn more about Writing a Will: Explanatory Letters. Here are some ideas and examples for writing an explanatory letter. Introduction. A formal introduction to the letter you leave can help make it clear that what you write is an expression of your sentiments and not intended as a will -- or an addition to or interpretation of your will.
That's one of the many good reasons Co-op Legal Services provides a telephone service that's available to you between 9 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday. We also have Will Writing Advisors available on Saturday between 9 am and 1 pm to answer your questions about making a Will and how our service works as well as providing you with an upfront fix fee quote to do it all for you.