Guidelines to Writing a Holographic Will
The entire will should be in the Testator’s own handwriting (cursive or print).
The date should appear at the top of the Will and suggested format is as follows:
- I, write your full name, of write your city, state and county, write this Holographic Will with the intent of setting forth my wishes for the disposition of my estate after my death. As of the date of this Will, I am of sound mind and am totally capable of determining my own affairs."
- If you have executed a Will previously that you wish to void, you must write at the beginning of this Holographic Will: “This particular Holographic Will makes any previously signed Last Will and Testament invalid and without binding legal force.”
- As to my personal possessions, and chattels, which I will leave behind in the wake of my death, I, here and now, declare my intent as to their disposition.”
- "As to the funds in my bank account, I want them to go to my [indicate which] wife, son, daughter, friend, etc., full name of Beneficiary.”
- “As to my stocks and bonds, [if applicable] I want them to go to my [indicate which] wife, son, daughter, friend, etc., full name of Beneficiary.”
- “As to my list specific items; such as coin collection, art works, jewelry, etc. [if applicable] I want it/them to go to my [indicate which] wife, son, daughter, friend, etc., full name of Beneficiary.”
- “As to my legal interest in my home, [if applicable] I want it to go to my [indicate which] wife, son, daughter, friend, etc., full name of Beneficiary.”
- Continue with any and all bequests, itemizing each specific bequest as indicated.
- Ensure that the Holographic Will is completely legible, neat and organized.
- If desired, you may include your own personal statements as to why you prefer to leave specific bequests to one party, rather than another. This may help to establish your mental soundness.
- After completing and signing the Will, to help ensure the validity of the Will, you may seal the document in an envelope, place tape over the seal and send it to yourself by certified mail. When it is delivered, sign for it and staple the signed receipt to the envelope. Then store the Will in a safe place; such as a safe deposit box, wall safe or fire-proof cabinet.
