When it comes time to sign your Will, you’ll generally need at least two witnesses present to watch you sign the document and then sign it themselves. These witnesses help verify that your Will was signed willingly and that you were of sound mind.
Basic Requirements for Will Witnesses
While specific rules vary by state, most states require that a Will witness:
Is at least 18 years old
Is mentally competent
Is not a beneficiary of the Will
Why Witnesses Shouldn’t Be Beneficiaries
In many states, if a person who witnesses your Will is also named as a beneficiary:
Their inheritance could be invalidated
It may create a conflict of interest
It could open the door for legal challenges later on
To avoid this, it's best to choose witnesses who are completely neutral, such as:
Neighbors
Coworkers
Friends not named in the Will
What If I’m Not Sure Who Qualifies?
NetLaw provides execution instructions alongside your Will. These instructions include:
The number of witnesses required in your state
Any state-specific restrictions or recommendations
Guidance for notarization, if applicable
Following these steps helps ensure your Will is legally valid and enforceable.