Last Will and Testament in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Requirements

• Testator must be 18 or older and of sound mind
• Only the testator's signature is required — witnesses are not legally mandated (but recommended)
• Holographic wills are recognized if signed by the testator
• Will must be filed with the Register of Wills within the county where the decedent resided
• Surviving spouse has an elective share of one-third of the augmented 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 Pennsylvania