Simple Will Forms

Dying is a serious business, and while no one really wants to talk or think about the possibility of death note, it does happen to anybody and any one of us when least expected. For that reason, it’s extremely important that your loved ones are provided for in an event of sudden and unexpected demise.

If you haven’t done so before, now would probably be the right time to have a will. The provisions don’t have to be complicated and our Sample Forms will help guide you draft even simple will forms containing your instructions and wishes.

Codicil to Will Form Template

Medical Living Will Form Template

Legal Will and Testament Form Template

Last Will and Testament Form Template

Joint Last Will and Testament Form Template

How to Get a Will Form?

• Online Legal Services: Use reputable online platforms that offer customizable will forms, tailored to your state’s laws.
• Local Attorney: Consult with a local attorney who specializes in estate planning to get a professionally drafted will.
• Office Supply Stores: Purchase generic will forms at office supply stores, though these may require further customization.
• State Bar Association: Contact your state’s bar association for referrals or resources on where to obtain will forms. You can also see more on Last Will and Testament Forms.
• Public Library: Check your local library, which may have legal form books that include will forms.
• Legal Aid Societies: Seek assistance from legal aid organizations if you qualify for their services, which might include free or low-cost will forms.
• Online Legal Forums: Browse through online legal forums where professionals share insights and resources, including where to find will forms.
• Financial Advisors: Consult your financial advisor, who can provide recommendations and possibly direct you to estate planning resources. You can also see more on Living Wills.

Will With Testamentary Trust Form Template

Simple Legal Will Form Template

Sample Will Form for Single Person Template

Last Will and Testament Form Template

Simple Living Will Form Example

Where to Get Will Forms?

• Online Legal Services: Websites like LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, and Nolo offer state-specific will forms that can be filled out online and printed. These platforms often provide guidance to help you complete the form correctly. You can also see more on Will Samples.
• Local Attorneys: Consulting with an attorney specializing in estate planning ensures that your will conforms to state laws and meets your specific needs. An attorney can provide a customized will, which is especially useful if your estate is large or complex.
• Office Supply Stores: Stores such as Staples or Office Depot often carry basic legal form books that include will forms. These are more generic but can be sufficient for simple estates.
• State Bar Association: Many state bar associations offer resources for public use, including will templates or referrals to legal services.
• Public Libraries: Some libraries have legal form books that you can use to copy a will form. Others might offer access to online legal resources as part of their library services.
• Legal Aid Organizations: If you qualify based on income, legal aid societies can provide free legal advice and resources, including will forms.
• Do-It-Yourself Legal Books: Publishers like Nolo press publish books that guide you through the process of writing your own will, including templates you can use. You can also see more on Last Will And Testament Forms.
• Financial Advisors: If you have a financial advisor, they might also be able to recommend where to find will forms or direct you to estate planning attorneys.

Standard Will Form Template

These sample will forms come useful no matter how old you are. Making a will has no age restrictions and everyone at any age should think about making one at the soonest possible time. This is done so any of your wishes are properly documented and your assets distributed according to your exact wishes. You can also see more on Living Trust Forms.

These sample will forms contain spaces for names of people you want to benefit (beneficiaries) and property or possessions (assets) you want distributed in accordance to your wishes after your demise. Do take sample note that a valid will is accepted and put into effect only if the following conditions are met in the will:

• It must be put into writing either through your own handwriting, typewritten or print;
• Your signature must be affixed at the end of the document; and
• There must be two witnesses present at the sample timeline of signing, with each acknowledging their presence by signing as witnesses in your presence. They don’t necessarily have to be together simultaneously during the signing.

Our printable and downloadable Sample Will Forms are available in either Microsoft Word DOC or Portable Document Format (PDF) for easy usage where you don’t necessarily have to ask someone to draft the will for you.

Simple Will Form Outline Template

Living Will Declaration Form Template

Basic Will Form Template

Benefits of Will Forms

• Legal Clarity: Will forms help ensure that your last wishes are legally binding. Using a correctly filled form minimizes the chances of disputes over the interpretation of your intentions. You can also see more on Employee Forms.
• Efficient Distribution of Assets: A will allows you to specify exactly how your assets should be distributed among your heirs, reducing potential conflicts and ensuring that your wishes are followed.
• Protection for Minor Children: Through a will, you can make clear legal arrangements for the guardianship of minor children, ensuring they are cared for by trusted individuals of your choosing.
• Minimizes Probate Issues: A well-drafted will can streamline the probate process, potentially reducing the time and expense involved in settling your estate. You can also see more on Application Forms.
• Flexibility: Will forms provide the flexibility to cater to various personal circumstances, including provisions for charitable donations, specific bequests, or the establishment of trusts.
• Avoidance of Default State Rules: Without a will, state laws (intestacy laws) determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your actual wishes.
• Planning for Pets: Wills can include provisions for the care and maintenance of pets, ensuring they are well looked after. You can also see more on Agreement Form.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your affairs are in order can provide immense peace of mind to you and your family, ensuring that your legacy is preserved as you intended.

Will Form Format

Will Bank Deposit Form Template

What Forms Do You Need for a Will?

• Last Will and Testament: This is the primary document where you specify how you want your assets distributed, who will be the executor of your estate, and guardians for any minor children.
• Self-Proving Affidavit: Many states allow you to attach this affidavit to your will, signed in the presence of a notary and witnesses. It helps expedite the probate process by verifying the authenticity of the will without having your witnesses testify in court. You can also see more on Will Statement.
• Codicil to Will: If you need to make minor changes to an existing will, a codicil is used. It must be executed with the same formalities as the original will.
• Living Will: Although separate from your last will and testament, a living will is important as it outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment if you become incapacitated and unable to communicate your decisions.
• Health Care Power of Attorney: This form allows you to appoint someone to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
• Financial Power of Attorney: This document grants someone authority to handle your financial affairs, which can be crucial if you become incapacitated. You can also see more on Last Will and Testament.
• Personal Property Memorandum: Some states allow you to list items of personal property and whom you wish to inherit them in a separate document that refers back to your will. This can be changed without amending the will itself.
• Digital Asset Memorandum: With digital assets becoming more common, it’s wise to have a plan for your digital presence and assets after death, which might include social media accounts, online banking, and emails.

While simple will forms are covered, there’s quite a difference when it comes to a Living Will. A Living Will is actually an advanced directive aimed at health care providers in the event that you are unable to communicate your desire in terms of treatment.

More often than not, Living Wills tend to be overlooked. What most people don’t realize is that Living Wills provide invaluable assistance to both a patient’s family and health care providers. These Sample Living Will Forms offer indispensable guidance to those wishing to make Living Wills. The aim of a Living Will is done more importantly to provide palliative care to ease a patient’s pain and suffering during those crucial times when pain medication is needed and the patient is clearly incapacitated.

With these sample Living Will forms, you can create your own Living Will without having to hire a lawyer to prepare it for you and avoid costly legal and attorney’s fees. Do take note that a Living Will can be revoked any time you wish to. Much like a will done to leave possession or property report, a Living Will can only take effect once it is signed. Living Wills can also take effect only when it is determined that you are no longer capable of communicating your desire for treatment.

Can I download a blank will form?

Yes, blank will forms are available for download from legal websites, state government sites, and platforms like LegalZoom or Rocket Lawyer.

What is the best form of will?

The best form of will is a testamentary will, professionally prepared and tailored to individual needs, ensuring all legal requirements are met.

How to write a simple will at home?

Identify assets, designate beneficiaries, choose an executor, state your wishes clearly, and sign it in front of witnesses.

Can you make an unofficial will?

You can create an unofficial will, but it may not be legally binding or enforceable in court, risking disputes and complications.