Wills & Testaments
Everything about wills: how to make one that holds up, what makes a will invalid, changing or revoking it, codicils, handwritten wills, naming a guardian for your children, and the risks of DIY wills. Will requirements vary by state.
All Wills & Testaments guides
- What Is a Codicil and When Do You Need One?
A codicil formally amends an existing will without replacing it. Learn what a codicil can change, what formalities it requires, and when a new will is better.
- How to Make a Will: Requirements and Common Mistakes
A will must meet your state's specific formalities to be valid. Learn the requirements, what mistakes most often void a will, and how to protect yours.
- The Risks of DIY and Online Wills
DIY and online wills can be legally valid, but execution errors, state-law mismatches, and missed non-probate assets create real risks. What can go wrong.
- What Is a Pour-Over Will?
A pour-over will works alongside a living trust to catch assets left outside the trust at death. Learn how it works, its limits, and when it makes sense.
- Naming a Guardian for Your Children in Your Will
If you have minor children, naming a guardian in your will is one of the most important decisions you can make. Learn how it works and what courts look at.
- Living Will vs. Last Will: What's the Difference?
A living will directs your medical care while you are alive and incapacitated. A last will distributes your estate after death. Learn the key differences.
- Advance Directives and Health Care Proxies Explained
Advance directives let you direct your medical care and name a decision-maker if you become incapacitated. Learn the types, requirements, and why they matter.
- Are Handwritten (Holographic) Wills Valid?
A holographic will is handwritten by the testator, usually without witnesses. Some states recognize them; many don't. Learn the rules and the risks.
- What Makes a Will Invalid?
A will can be rejected by a probate court if it fails state formalities, lacks testamentary capacity, or shows undue influence. Learn the main grounds.
- How to Change or Revoke a Will
You can update or revoke a will at any time while you have capacity — but only certain methods are legally effective. Learn what works and what doesn't.