Last Will and Testament in North Carolina

North Carolina Requirements

• Testator must be 18 or older and of sound mind
• Attested wills require two competent witnesses who sign in the testator's presence
• Holographic wills must be in the testator's handwriting, signed, and found among valuable papers or in a safe deposit box
• Self-proving affidavit recommended to avoid calling witnesses at probate
• Surviving spouse's elective share ranges from 10% to 50% based on the length of the marriage

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 North Carolina