Ensuring your will is valid is critical for the court and your loved ones to respect your final wishes after you pass away. Every state has laws regarding the validity of wills, and Pennsylvania is no exception.
To ensure your will is valid in Pennsylvania, keep the following in mind:
Age and capacity
You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to create a valid will in Pennsylvania. Sound mind refers to having the mental capacity to understand the nature and extent of your property, the people who will inherit it from you and the consequences of your decisions.
Formatting
You must handwrite or type your will. In Pennsylvania, the courts do not recognize oral or video wills.
Signature
You must sign your will at the end of the document to indicate that it represents your final wishes. In addition, Pennsylvania law requires two witnesses to observe you at the time of signature. State law also requires their signatures on the will.
Witnesses
Witnesses must be competent individuals who are not beneficiaries or spouses of beneficiaries named in the will to comply with state law.
Beneficiaries
You must clearly identify the names of your beneficiaries, either people or organizations, who will inherit your assets and property. Be as specific as possible and name their relationship to you if possible.
Executor
You must appoint an executor who will carry out the instructions in your will. This person will manage your estate, distribute assets, and handle other administrative tasks.
Creating a valid will in Pennsylvania requires careful consideration of the state’s specific legal requirements. Each state has its own requirements and it is important to know what this state requires for a will to be valid in court.
Failure to follow these requirements could lead to an invalid or contested will and other legal issues, which can be prevented by following your attorney’s instructions and understanding how Pennsylvania law works and what the state requires for a will to be valid.