Holographic Last Will and Testament Template: Handwritten Will Rules & Signatures

Create a holographic (handwritten) last will and testament document. This template helps you understand the requirements for creating a valid holographic will in your state.

Fill in the Form

1. Personal Information

Full Legal Name *

City *

State *

Age of Majority *

Date of Birth *

Current Address *

2. Executor

Executor Name *

Executor City *

Executor State *

Alternate Executor Name

3. Estate Distribution

Beneficiaries *

Estate Distribution Details *

4. Guardian for Minor Children

I have minor children

5. Signature and Date

Date Written *

Printed Name

Preview

Holographic Last Will and Testament

I, [Full Legal Name], of [City], [State], being of sound mind and over the age of [Age of Majority in Your State], do hereby make and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament, revoking all previous wills or codicils:

Declaration and Intent

This document is my Holographic Will. I write it entirely in my own handwriting and sign it voluntarily.

Personal Information

My full name is [Full Name], born on [Date of Birth]. My current address is [Address, City, State, Zip].

Executor

I name [Full Name of Executor], of [City], [State], to serve as Executor of my estate. If this Executor cannot serve, I name [Alternate Executor's Full Name] as the alternate.

Disposition of My Estate

I give and bequeath all my personal property, real estate, and financial assets to [Full Name of Beneficiary(ies)] in the following manner:

a. [Describe which items or percentages go to which beneficiary.]

b. [Add more items if needed.]

Signature and Date

I fully understand the contents of this Will. I declare that I am of legal age and sound mind.

Signature: (Handwritten) ________________________

Printed Name: [Full Name (if desired)]

Date: [Date written and signed]

Important Notes for a Holographic Will

Write It Entirely by Hand: In states that recognize holographic wills, typed parts may invalidate the will.
Sign and Date: While some states do not strictly require a date, it's highly advisable to include it.
No Witnesses?: Many states do not require witnesses for a valid holographic will, but some do. Check local laws.
Risks: Holographic wills can be more easily contested. Proper attestation (with witnesses) is often safer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our templates.

What is a holographic will?

A holographic will is a will that is entirely handwritten by the testator (the person making the will) and signed by them. Some states recognize holographic wills as valid even without witnesses, but requirements vary by jurisdiction.

Do I need witnesses for a holographic will?

Witness requirements for holographic wills vary by state. Some states recognize holographic wills without witnesses, while others require witnesses. It's important to check your state's specific requirements to ensure your will is valid.

Can I type parts of a holographic will?

No. For a will to be considered holographic, it must be entirely handwritten by the testator. Typed parts may invalidate the will in states that recognize holographic wills. The entire document should be in your own handwriting.

Is a holographic will legally binding?

Holographic wills can be legally binding in states that recognize them, but they are more easily contested than formally executed wills with witnesses and notarization. We recommend consulting with an attorney to ensure your will meets all legal requirements in your state.

Should I use a holographic will or a formal will?

While holographic wills can be valid in some states, formal wills with proper witnesses and notarization are generally safer and less likely to be contested. For important estate planning matters, we strongly recommend consulting with an estate planning attorney to create a properly executed will.

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