Originally published: September 16, 2014 | Last updated: June 2, 2025
TL;DR: Writing a Last Will and Testament does not require a lawyer. You can create a legally valid Will online in about 20 minutes using a guided service like USLegalWills.com. Your Will should name an Executor, appoint guardians for minor children, and specify how your assets will be distributed. Print and sign the document in the presence of two witnesses to make it legally binding.
Most Americans need to have a Last Will and Testament as their most essential legal document yet more than 60% of American adults lack this document.
What Is a Last Will and Testament?
You need to create a Last Will and Testament when your mind operates properly because this document lets you choose how your estate should be handled after your death.
- Asset distribution – who receives your property, savings, investments, and personal belongings
- Key appointments – naming an Executor to manage your estate and guardians for minor children
- Specific instructions – funeral wishes, digital asset management, pet care, and charitable bequests
Do I Need a Lawyer to Write a Will?
No. A lawyer is not required to write a legally valid Will in any U.S. state.
Our guides about Will costs and payment recommendations offer readers a detailed breakdown of all available options and their associated expenses.
What Should I Include in My Will?
Every comprehensive Will needs to include these essential elements:
| Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Executor | The person who manages your estate and carries out your wishes |
| Guardians | Who will raise your minor children if both parents die |
| Asset distribution | Specific bequests and residual estate instructions |
| Digital assets | Social media accounts, online banking, cryptocurrency |
| Pet care | Who will care for your animals and funds set aside for their care |
| Funeral wishes | Burial or cremation preferences and memorial instructions |
You can find our complete guide for Will writing through two resources which include a 10-step process and our ultimate Will preparation manual.
What Are the Most Common Mistakes When Writing a Will?
The most frequent mistakes people make with DIY Wills include missing signatures from proper witnesses and failing to establish backup beneficiaries and neglecting to revise their Will after important life changes occur.
Learn more: When and how to update your Will.
What Are Some Special Considerations?
You will need to address different matters depending on how your personal circumstances unfold:
- The blended family Wills guide explains how to create special arrangements which protect children from previous relationships and multiple marriages.
- You can find answers about Will writing through our resource which explains Will significance or you can contact us for assistance.
- Surveys consistently show that fewer than 40% of American adults have a Will.
- How Do I Get Started?
- You can create your Last Will and Testament right now at USLegalWills.com .
Why Do So Many Americans Not Have a Will?
Surveys consistently show that fewer than 40% of American adults have a Will. The most common reasons include procrastination, perceived cost, and the belief that estate planning is only for the wealthy. None of these reasons hold up under scrutiny – here are five reasons not to procrastinate.
How Do I Get Started?
You can create your Last Will and Testament right now at USLegalWills.com. The process takes about 20 minutes. Answer guided questions about your family, assets, and wishes, then print and sign in front of two witnesses.
If you have questions about writing your Will, read why you need a Will or get in touch – we are happy to help you.
He has over 20 years of experience helping people to write their Will and other estate planning documents. He has been interviewed by many of the major news media outlets, and has contributed to articles in The New York Times, NY Metro Parents, U.S. News & World Report, and other leading publications. He has also contributed to a number of financial planning books.
Throughout his career, Tim has written extensively on the subject of Will writing and estate planning.
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