Holographic Wills: Proper Execution and Legal Considerations
Hi, I’m Oklahoma attorney Meg Prestidge and I want to talk to you today about the holographic will or handwritten will. I get asked a lot, are those valid? And yes, they’re valid under certain circumstances.
They must be written entirely in your own handwriting, be dated and signed by you. You must state your intention to create the will, list the items that you want to give away when you die, and identify who will receive your property when you die.
Common Mistakes in Holographic Wills
One of the errors that we commonly see is when a parent refers to their child with a nickname. For instance, instead of using the name Victor, they might simply write Vic. However, you need to be specific and use their full birth name—the one you gave them.
It’s crucial to ensure that you accurately list the items you want to give away and specify to whom, using their full and proper name. At the end of your will, do remember to sign it. Notably, a holographic will does not require witnesses or a notary.
Final Steps for Validating Your Holographic Will
Once you have executed your handwritten will, it is essential to inform someone you trust about its existence. This ensures that your wishes are known and can be honored after your passing.
If you want to discuss holographic wills or any other estate planning matters, feel free to reach out to an Oklahoma City estate planning attorney at oklahomacityattorney.com.
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