HowDoYa make a will?
A will is the foundation of any estate plan. Here's what it covers, what it doesn't, and the exact steps to make yours legally valid.
Most people know they should have a will — but far fewer actually have one. The good news: making a will is simpler than you think, and you don't need a lawyer to get started.
What is a will?
A will (also called a last will and testament) is a legal document that says what should happen to your belongings after you die. It names who gets what, who takes care of your kids, and who's in charge of carrying out your wishes (your executor).
What does a will cover?
A will can cover your personal property (furniture, jewellery, vehicles), financial accounts that don't have a named beneficiary, real estate you own outright, guardianship of minor children, and any specific gifts you want to leave to individuals or charities.
What a will doesn't cover
Some assets pass outside of your will regardless of what it says. These include life insurance policies with named beneficiaries, retirement accounts (401k, IRA), jointly owned property, and assets held in a trust. For these, the beneficiary designation or ownership structure controls what happens — not your will.
The steps to make a will
Start by listing your assets and deciding who should receive them. Choose an executor — someone you trust to carry out your wishes. If you have children, name a guardian. Then document everything clearly, sign it in front of witnesses (requirements vary by state), and store it somewhere safe. Let your executor know where to find it.
Does a will need to be notarised?
In most US states, a will does not need to be notarised to be valid — but it does need to be signed by you and witnessed by at least two adults who aren't beneficiaries. Some states allow a 'self-proving' affidavit, which is notarised and can speed up the probate process. Check your state's specific requirements.
What happens if you die without a will?
If you die without a will (called dying 'intestate'), your state's laws decide who gets your assets. This often means a spouse or children — but not always in the proportions you'd choose, and never to friends, unmarried partners, or charities. It can also mean a court appoints a guardian for your children rather than the person you would have chosen.
Ready to make your will?
HowDoYa walks you through it with plain-language questions. Most people finish in under 20 minutes.