How to Get a Will Notarized

Creating a will is one of the most important steps in protecting your family, distributing your assets, and ensuring your wishes are carried out after your death. While writing and signing the will are essential steps, notarizing it can significantly strengthen its legal standing.

Although notarization isn't required in all states, a notarized “self-proving” will can simplify probate and reduce the chances of your will being contested. Here's everything you need to know about how to get a will notarized and why it matters.

1. Understand When Notarization Is Required

Is notarization mandatory?

• In most states, a will does not need to be notarized to be legally valid. However, notarization becomes important when you want to make your will “self-proving.”

What Is a Self-Proving Will?

• A self-proving will includes an affidavit signed by the testator (you) and the witnesses, and notarized. This affidavit affirms that:

• You willingly signed the will
• You were of sound mind
• The witnesses saw you sign the will

• In states that accept self-proving wills, this eliminates the need to locate witnesses during probate, expediting the court process.

For more on the benefits of long-term estate strategies, see this Estate Planning Case Study: Protecting Families and Assets

Quick Tip:

• Always check your state's estate laws. Some states (like California) do not require a notarized will but may still accept a self-proving affidavit as part of the process.

2. Prepare Your Will Thoroughly

Before you bring a notary into the picture, ensure your will is well-drafted and legally compliant.

Checklist Before Notarization:

• Clearly state your name, beneficiaries, and asset distribution
• Appoint an executor
• Ensure your will is typed or printed (handwritten or “holographic” wills may be treated differently)
• Comply with your state’s requirement for number of witnesses (typically 2)

Why It Matters:

• If the will is incomplete, improperly signed, or poorly worded, notarization won’t save it from being challenged or deemed invalid.

Need help drafting your will? Learn why a custom legal plan is safer than DIY solutions in Why an Attorney-Drafted Will Is Better than an Online Template

3. Find a Licensed Notary Public

You can find a notary through:

• Law firms or estate planning attorneys (many offer notarization in-office)
• Banks and credit unions (often provide free notary services to members)
• Mobile notary services (notaries who visit your home or office)
• Shipping stores or libraries (some UPS Stores, FedEx locations, or public libraries offer notary services)

Tip: If you’re having your will notarized as part of a self-proving affidavit, be sure the notary is familiar with estate planning documents to ensure proper formatting and compliance.

4. Sign the Will in the Presence of a Notary (and Witnesses)

When you're ready to finalize the will:

1. Bring valid identification (driver’s license, passport, or government ID).
2. Sign the will in front of the notary and witnesses (do not pre-sign).
3. Witnesses must also sign the will in your presence and in the presence of each other.
4. The notary will verify identities, administer an oath, and notarize the affidavit, applying their official stamp.

Important: Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries in many states. Choosing disinterested parties helps preserve the will’s legitimacy.

5. Store the Notarized Will Securely

Once notarized, your will becomes a critical legal document and should be stored accordingly.

Safe Storage Options:

• Fireproof home safe
• With your estate planning attorney
• Filed with the probate court (in states that allow pre-death filing)
• Inform your executor or a trusted loved one where the original is stored

Copies: Make several copies (clearly marked “Copy”) for your executor and attorney—but remember, only the original holds legal power.

Key Takeaway

While notarization isn’t always a legal requirement, it’s a smart move to make your will self-proving and legally robust. By preparing your will properly, notarizing it correctly, and storing it securely, you’ll ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected.

Pro tip: Consider revisiting your will every 3–5 years or after major life changes (marriage, divorce, children, property purchases).