General will information, not signing instructions or legal advice. Check the current rules in the relevant state.
An electronic will is created or executed in electronic form under a statute that may impose platform, presence, witness, notary, custody, or record requirements.
What the will can control
- A will generally directs probate property at death, nominates an executor, and can nominate guardians for minor children.
- A will does not normally control property that passes by survivorship, beneficiary designation, trust ownership, or another contract-based transfer.
Execution and evidence file
- complete electronic record, audit trail, identity evidence, witness record, and custodian information
- the signed original will and every codicil
- a list of assets showing title and beneficiary designations
Coordination and backup choices
- Did the signing state authorize this execution method on that date?
- Which assets would actually be controlled by the will?
- What execution rules apply in the signing state?
Risks to pause on
- A typed file or electronic signature is not automatically a valid electronic will.
- Treating a draft, photocopy, or unsigned file as the operative original can create avoidable probate disputes.