New York Last Will and Testament
A last will and testament lets you name an executor, a guardian for minor children, and the people who inherit your estate. In New York, a will generally must be signed by the testator and two witnesses; notarization is not required for the will to be valid (N.Y. EPTL 3-2.1). New York also recognizes self-proving affidavits (N.Y. SCPA 1406), which let the will enter probate without tracking down the witnesses.
This template walks you through your executor, your beneficiaries, and any specific gifts, then produces a New York will ready to print and sign following the requirements below, in Word and PDF.
New York will signing requirements
| Witnesses | Two witnesses |
|---|---|
| Notarization | Not required for the will to be valid; a notary comes in only for the optional self-proving affidavit |
| Self-proving affidavit | Recognized (N.Y. SCPA 1406) |
| Holographic (handwritten) wills | Not recognized |
| Statute | N.Y. EPTL 3-2.1 |
New York uses affidavits of the attesting witnesses, typically signed at the same time as the will.
Recognized only for members of the armed forces during armed conflict, persons serving with them, and mariners at sea, and only for a limited time.
Verify before you rely on it
Wills statutes change, and probate courts apply them strictly. Confirm the current New York requirement in the statute cited above (or with your state's self-help resources) before signing your will.
How this template works in New York
Answer guided questions about your executor, guardians for minor children, and beneficiaries, and the will writes itself in front of you. Then print it and sign it with your witnesses following the New York requirements above; a will has no effect until it is properly signed.
The form, the live preview, and the full guide live on the main Last Will and Testament page.
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