Question 1

Do I need a lawyer to make a will?

Accepted Answer

No state requires you to hire a lawyer to create a valid will. However, we strongly recommend having your draft reviewed by a licensed attorney, especially if you have a complex estate, blended family, business interests, or significant assets.

Question 2

How many witnesses do I need to sign my will?

Accepted Answer

Most states require 2 witnesses. Pennsylvania is the only state that does not require witnesses at the time of signing (though they are recommended). Louisiana requires 2 witnesses plus a notary. Our tool tells you the exact requirements for your state.

Question 3

Does my will need to be notarized?

Accepted Answer

Louisiana is the only state that requires notarization for a standard will to be valid. However, most other states offer a 'self-proving affidavit' — a notarized attachment that speeds up probate. We strongly recommend getting the self-proving affidavit notarized even if it's not required.

Question 4

Is this tool really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, idonthaveawill.com is completely free. No account is needed, no credit card, and no upsell. Your data stays entirely on your device — nothing is stored on our servers. There is no paid version.

Question 5

What is a will?

Accepted Answer

A will (or 'last will and testament') is a legal document that states how you want your property and assets distributed after you die. It can also name a guardian for minor children, an executor to manage your estate, and include specific instructions about debts, digital assets, and funeral wishes.

Question 6

What happens if I die without a will?

Accepted Answer

If you die without a will (called 'dying intestate'), your state's default laws determine who inherits your property. This usually means your spouse and children split the estate according to a fixed formula — which may not match your wishes. A court will also appoint someone to manage your estate and, if you have minor children, decide who raises them.

Question 7

How long does it take to make a will with this tool?

Accepted Answer

Most people complete the questionnaire in about 10 minutes. The tool asks plain-English questions about your family, assets, and wishes, then generates a draft will formatted for your state. You can download it as a PDF or Word document immediately.

Question 8

Is my data safe? Where is my information stored?

Accepted Answer

Your data never leaves your browser. The entire will is generated client-side on your device. We do not store your name, address, beneficiaries, or any personal information on our servers. The only data we collect is anonymous usage statistics (like which state you selected).

Question 9

Can I edit my will after I create it?

Accepted Answer

You can come back and create a new will at any time — the tool is free with no limits. However, if you have already signed your previous will, you should formally revoke it. Most states allow you to revoke a will by creating a new one that explicitly states it revokes all prior wills (which our tool does automatically).

Question 10

Is a will made with this tool legally valid?

Accepted Answer

This tool generates a properly formatted draft will, but a will is not legally valid until it is properly executed — meaning you must sign it and have it witnessed according to your state's specific requirements. Our tool provides your state's signing checklist. We strongly recommend having an attorney review your draft before signing.

Question 11

Do I need a will if I'm young and healthy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have any assets (a bank account, car, phone), a lease, or especially children, you need a will regardless of age. Without one, a court decides who gets your belongings and who raises your kids. 67% of Americans don't have a will — most because they assume it's only for older or wealthy people.

Question 12

What's the difference between a will and a trust?

Accepted Answer

A will takes effect after you die and goes through probate court. A trust takes effect immediately and can avoid probate entirely. Trusts are more complex and typically used for larger estates or specific tax planning. For most people, a simple will is the right starting point. This tool creates wills, not trusts.

You Don't Have a Will.
Let's Fix That.

Why You Need a Will

Without a will, the state decides everything.

67% of Americans don't have a will.

Your family deserves clarity, not a courtroom.

It's not just for rich people.

You probably need one more than you think.

It's Easier Than You Think

Answer a few simple questions

We draft a will for you to review

Print, sign, and follow your state's steps

How This Tool Helps

All 50 states + DC

Your will is always free

No account needed

Your data stays on your device

Plain English

State-specific guidance

Get a free annual reminder to review your will

Important: Please Read

You Don't Have a Will.Let's Fix That.