Congratulations on getting started on your will--it's easy with WillMaker. We'll ask you a series of simple questions and design a will for you based on your answers. You should be able to finish your will in less than an hour, without hiring a lawyer.
You'll have help and guidance every step of the way. As you go through the interview, try clicking the blue question mark icons. Doing so will open up Helpful Information on the right side of the screen answering many questions about making your will. And those topics will lead to more in-depth help, if you need it. Take your time to understand the questions and to consider your answers--after all, WillMaker doesn't charge by the hour.
It will be easier to make your will if you've gathered some information first:
You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to make a will. Being of sound mind means that you understand what property you own and to whom you want to leave it.
This will is designed to be used by most U.S. citizens and permanent residents, including U.S. residents living abroad.
However, this will is not appropriate for residents of Louisiana or the American territories.
In your will, you can:
There are a number of tasks that you cannot carry out with this will.
Some of them are not legally smart and some would simply make the program too complicated. For example, you cannot:
WillMaker provides answers to your questions at every step of the will-making process. Here's how to get more information about:
After completing our interview, purchasing the will, and printing your document, you and your witnesses must sign your will document to make it legal. Detailed instructions print with your will.
When you print your will after purchasing it, the pdf download will include:
Making a will is a good, reliable way to leave your property when you die. In addition to making your will, you may also want to learn more about other aspects of estate planning -- such as estate taxes, probate, living wills, and health care directives. Visit the Wills, Trusts & Probate section of Nolo.com to explore these topics in detail.
WillMaker's will is a great estate planning solution for many people because it's convenient, fast, inexpensive, and covers most situations. But we can only provide general information about whether or not this will might work for you. If you want legal advice about your specific circumstances, you should contact an estate planning attorney.
Finding a lawyer who best suits your needs usually requires patience, willingness to do some footwork, and the ability to comparison shop.
Read more about Working With An Estate Planning Attorney and about Whether You May Need More than a Will.