Do-it-yourself will: What you should know

A DIY Will is a will created online by the person writing a will (Testator).

How to write your own DIY will in 8 steps.

You can write your own DIY Will in the following 8 steps; –

1. List your Assets.

You will need to organize your assets, which will make it easier for you to include them in your estate planning and ensure that you do not forget any.

2. Decide on beneficiaries.

Deciding on your beneficiaries is important and necessary to distribute your estate amongst your heirs properly and loved ones per your wishes. 

3. Choose an executor.

Selecting an Executor is important as they will be charged with making sure your wishes are adhered to and will make sure your estate is settled.

4. Appoint guardians for minor children.

You should choose who will be your children’s guardian if you are not there and to whom the responsibility of raising your children will occur.

5. Specify your funeral arrangements.

You can be specific about what should be done for your funeral, and your beneficiaries will follow your wishes.

6. Sign your will in front of witnesses.

You should sign the will before the required number of witnesses according to your state Laws.

7. Store your will in a safe place.

You should store your will in a safe place that will not be easily destroyed and inform anyone who needs to know about it.

Review and update your will regularly.

You should be sure to review and update your will any time you feel it is necessary and in the case of a major life event, such as a birth, death, marriage, or divorce in the family.

Pros of DIY wills

• They are easy and Free to make.
• They are fast.
• They are easy to update. 
• They are sufficient for most people.

Cons of DIY Wills

• They need to be witnessed to be legal.
• They may fail to take into account specific estate planning needs.
• They can be set up incorrectly.

Are DIY wills legitimate?

Yes. The DIY will is deemed valid when it is signed and witnessed in accordance with the applicable law.

What makes a DIY will legal?

A DIY will is made legal by clearly stating that it is your last will, being dated, listing your assets and beneficiaries, being clear on the distribution, and being signed by you in the presence of competent witnesses, who should also sign the will.

Are DIY wills notarized?

Yes. Notarization is to ascertain that the DIY Will is valid and no disputes shall be raised.

Why you should avoid using DIY wills

DIY wills should be avoided as they are mostly declared invalid due to drafting errors, incorrect legal terminology, incorrect signing, and witnessing of the DIY Will.

What are DIY will Kits?

DIY Will Kits are a simple, straightforward, and cost-effective option for making a will. They contain guidance notes and examples to help you make a will on your own. You can purchase your own DIY Will Kits from online stores.

Comparing professional online will writing services Vs. DIY

Online Will writing services allow you to quickly and simply have a legally valid will without the face-to-face meetings and higher costs charged by the attorney.

DIY Will allows you to have your will in minutes without necessarily being sure that the will is legally binding and done by the law. 

Are DIY Wills Texas Legal?

Yes, DIY wills are legal in Texas, our professionals at LegalPen provide will writing services in Texas.

Are DIY Wills Florida Legal?

Yes, DIY wills are legal in Texas, our professionals at LegalPen provide will writing services in Florida.

Are DIY Wills Oregon Legal?

Yes, DIY wills are legal in Oregon, our professionals at LegalPen provide will writing services in Oregon.

Are DIY Wills Colorado Legal?

Yes, DIY wills are legal in Colorado, our professionals at LegalPen provide will writing services in Colorado.

Are DIY Wills California Legal?

Yes, DIY Wills are legal in California, our professionals at LegalPen provide will writing services in California.