What Do You Need to Get Your Will Signed?

IMPORTANT: This guide is for general educational purposes for U.S. adults with relatively simple finances. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice. HeirLight is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Laws vary by state; consider consulting a licensed attorney about your specific situation.
Writing the will is the part everyone worries about. Signing it is the part that actually makes it real, and it's simpler than most people expect.
Quick answer: To sign your will in most states, you need the printed will, two adult witnesses who don't inherit under it, and a pen. You sign in front of the witnesses, then they sign. Notarization usually isn't required to make the will valid, but if you add a self-proving affidavit (which speeds up probate), you'll also need a notary. Don't sign the will ahead of time: everyone signs together.