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Estate PlanningVirginia

Virginia 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 Virginia, a will generally must be signed by the testator and two witnesses; notarization is not required for the will to be valid (Va. Code 64.2-403). Virginia also recognizes self-proving affidavits (Va. Code 64.2-452), 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 Virginia will ready to print and sign following the requirements below, in Word and PDF.

Create your Virginia last will and testamentRead the full Last Will and Testament guide

Virginia will signing requirements

Virginia last will and testament requirements at a glance
WitnessesTwo witnesses
NotarizationNot required for the will to be valid; a notary comes in only for the optional self-proving affidavit
Self-proving affidavitRecognized (Va. Code 64.2-452)
Holographic (handwritten) willsRecognized (Va. Code 64.2-403)
StatuteVa. Code 64.2-403

The will must be wholly in the testator's handwriting, proved by at least two disinterested witnesses at probate.

Verify before you rely on it

Wills statutes change, and probate courts apply them strictly. Confirm the current Virginia requirement in the statute cited above (or with your state's self-help resources) before signing your will.

How this template works in Virginia

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 Virginia 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.

Last Will and Testament in other states