How to Write a Simple Will (Without a Lawyer)
Think you need a fancy attorney to make your Will legal? You don’t. For 70% of people, a simple DIY document works perfectly fine. Here is how to lock down your legacy for free (or cheap).
Do I Really Need a Lawyer?
Lawyers are great for complicated messes. But if you just want to leave the house to your spouse and the kids to your sister, a lawyer is overkill.
| Situation | DIY Will (Safe) | Lawyer Required |
|---|---|---|
| Net Worth | Under $2M | High Net Worth |
| Family | Simple / Single | Fighting / Blended |
| Kids | Healthy | Special Needs |
| Cost | ~$0 – $99 | $800 – $3,000 |
| Complexity | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Complex | Call Lawyer |
| Simple | Use App |
4 Steps to a Legal Will (DIY)
A Will is basically just a letter to the judge. But it needs 4 things to be “Official.”
1. Pick the “Boss” (Executor)
This person cleans up your mess when you’re gone. They close bank accounts, pay debts, and sell the house.
Tip: Don’t pick the “nice” sibling. Pick the organized one who answers emails.
2. Name a Guardian (The Big One)
If you have kids under 18, this is the #1 reason to write a will. If you don’t name a guardian, the State Judge decides who raises your kids. Don’t let a stranger decide that.
3. Be Specific with Stuff
Don’t say “I leave my stuff to my wife.” Say “I leave my house at 123 Main St to my wife.”
Note: Your Life Insurance and 401(k) skip the will entirely. They go to whoever is named on the policy beneficiary list.
4. Sign with Witnesses (Crucial)
You can’t just sign it alone. In most states, two people (who are NOT getting any money) must watch you sign it and then sign it themselves.
No witnesses = Invalid Will.