Last Will and Testament in New York

New York Requirements

• Testator must be 18 or older and of sound mind
• Must be signed by the testator at the end of the document
• Two attesting witnesses must sign within 30 days of the testator's signature
• Holographic wills are NOT recognized (except for armed forces members during military service)
• Surviving spouse has an elective share right of the greater of $50,000 or one-third of the net estate

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 New York