Last Will and Testament in California

California Requirements

• Testator must be 18 or older and of sound mind
• Must be signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses
• Witnesses must sign during the testator's lifetime
• Holographic wills must be in the testator's own handwriting and signed
• Community property rules apply — surviving spouse entitled to half of community property

How to Complete This Form

1. 1List all of your assets, including real property, bank accounts, investments, and personal property.
2. 2Decide how you want your assets distributed and name your beneficiaries.
3. 3Appoint an executor (personal representative) to manage your estate after death.
4. 4If you have minor children, name a guardian for them.
5. 5Draft the will using your state's required format and language.
6. 6Sign the will in the presence of the required number of witnesses and, if desired, execute a self-proving affidavit.
7. 7Store the original will in a safe location and inform your executor of its location.

Last Will and Testament in Other States

Other Forms in California