The Florida last will and testament is a document, legal and accepted by the state of Florida. It reflects the wishes of the testator, how all their assets and property will be distributed among their beneficiaries after the testator passes away. It’s a way to protect your relatives, children, friends – everyone who is special to you. You may even include organizations which mean a lot to you. You can change or revoke this legal document any time. To make it legal, you need a notarization and two witnesses.
How to Write Your Own Will in Florida
Step 1. Provide the Information about a Testator
At the very beginning, name the author of the Last Will – that will be a Testator’s name. Follow it by city and county of your residence and don’t forget to review “Expenses and Taxes”.
Step 2. Choose a Personal Representative
Here enter the name, city, county and state of residence of a chosen representative of yours named Executor. Think about having an alternate one in case the initial executor cannot provide all the services, then enter the same information as well.
Step 3. Enter Information about Beneficiaries and Your Property
Beneficiaries are your chosen people who you’d wish to leave your assets to. Give their names, addresses, their relationship to you and last 4 digits of the SSN. Decide how you divide your belongings between them all.
Step 4. Review the paragraphs and make a Binding Agreement
The Testator must review all the necessary sections and enter the following information in the presence of witnesses: the testator’s name, date of their signature, the signature itself and a printed name.
Step 5. Signatures of the Witnesses
The witnesses enter their complete addresses and put their signatures. Let them read the brief statement before and date the document with entering the testator‘s name.
Step 6. Acknowledge the document with the help of the notary
After completion, the notary public witnesses all signatures and submit the names of all parties.
How to Make A Will in Florida
Florida State Will Requirements
According to Chapter 732 (Probate Code: Intestate Succession and Wills), the Will must be signed by at least two witnesses in the Testator’s presence. You need to be at least 18 or an emancipated minor to be a Testator, and of course of sound mind to make decisions.
What are the Requirements for a Will to be Valid in Florida
- The person who signs the document is you (the Testator) or another individual who acts at the direction and in the presence of the Testator.
- The witnesses are at least two and they should be competent.
- The document can be revoked or amended. Use a codicil.
- Attention! Your will won’t be recognized as valid in Florida if it’s holographic (that means handwritten). It should be typewritten.
Does a Will Have to be Notarized in Florida
Notarize your will to make it ‘self proved’ and be sure about the admission to probate court. A state-certified Notary Public will make your will legal.