Drafting Will Without a Lawyer; Valid If Notarized - AARP Bulletin

Drafting Your Own Will

You don' t have to be a lawyer just have it notarized

Q. I'm thinking of drafting my will myself. Will it be valid when the time comes, or do I have to hire a lawyer? Getty Images Do-it-yourself wills can save you money, but create a mess for your heirs when you’re gone. See also: A. You don't have to have a lawyer to create a basic — you can prepare one yourself. It must meet your state's legal requirements and should be notarized. Look for how-to guides in libraries, bookstores and online. But be careful: For anything complex or unusual, like distributing a lot of money or cutting someone out, you'd do best to hire a lawyer. A do-it-yourself will that's poorly drafted can save you money but create a mess for your heirs when you're gone.

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Experts: Eartheasy.com and "Bottom Line's Household Magic" on pests; AARP on wills; Social Security Administration on benefits. Send your questions to: Ask the Experts, AARP Bulletin, 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, or email [email protected]. Go to aarp.org/bulletin for previously answered questions.

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