Should I make a will online?

Question:

Since I've had a baby, I've found more ways to procrastinate about making a will. I've been planning on buying will software, but haven't gotten around to ordering it. Can I make a will online? How is this different than going to a lawyer for a will? Is it safe? Can I assign a guardian for my child in case anything happens to me?

Answer:

Yes, most people with moderate estates can make a will online. In some ways, making a will online is very similar to estate planning with the help of a lawyer. For example, with Nolo's online will, you answer interview questions tailored to your situation, get answers to your legal concerns, and in the end receive a legal document tailored to the laws of your state -- just like you would with a lawyer. Your main task will then be to sign the document and have it witnessed. Of course, an online will costs a lot less and takes much less time than going to a lawyer, and you don't have to leave your home or office to do it.

Is it safe to make a will without a lawyer? Yes. Making a will rarely involves complicated legal rules, and most people with simple estates won't need a lawyer to make a will. (To learn more about basic wills, see The Simple Will: No Frills, No Fuss, No Anxiety.)

However, there are certainly some situations that warrant hiring a lawyer. When you make your will online with Nolo, if a situation arises in which you may benefit from the advice of a lawyer or other expert, the program will let you know. (For more information, see Making a Will: Are Lawyers Optional?)

Is your information safe when you make a will online? With Nolo, absolutely. We give security issues the highest priority and take every precaution to ensure the security of our website. See our security statement.

Can you assign a guardian for your child in your will? Yes, a will is the right place to name someone to care for your children if you are unable to. For more information on choosing a guardian, see Guardianship for Your Children.

To make your will right now, in about a half an hour, try out Nolo's Online Will. You'll get guidance at each step, as well as detailed instructions on signing and storing your will.