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Does Pennsylvania Require a Will?

A will is not required in the event of your death. However, it is recommended. Like in many other states, Pennsylvania works the same, taking over property distributions in compliance with Pennsylvania Code, Title 20. While you will never be legally obligated to create a last will and testament, you will more than likely be asked to decide what happens with your belongings when your last day comes. It is not something that most families want to talk about, but it is helpful to know and will help keep the peace during a sensitive and emotional mourning period.

Why Do I Need a Will?

A will serves many purposes, the most important being that you get to decide what happens with your stuff. On top of that, it is a way to keep everything calm with the family, allowing them to mourn and grieve in their own time. A will allows you to take control and have a say in everything from funeral plans to your property’s distribution.

Besides that, a will keeps the state from stepping in, putting your assets into the process known as intestacy. When this happens, the state takes its time gathering up all of your possessions and starting the distribution process. When they finally get to it, the state takes a look at your closest family members, including your spouse and your children. If neither of those applies, then they start to take a look at the family tree, looking until they find the closest next of kin to take over your things.

How to Fill Out a Last Will

When you’re ready to get started, you’ll need to think a few things out first. First and foremost, it can help to have a good idea about your possessions. Think about what you want to happen to them and who you would like to take them over. Once you have that in mind, you can complete a list and include the names of those you wish to inherit your belongings. These are known as your beneficiaries, one of the essential selections that you’ll have to make.

Another selection has to do with appointing a person getting everything started when the time comes. They are known as your executor and should be someone that isn’t afraid to take charge at any moment. The person that you select will be the one to start all of the paperwork and make sure that everything runs smoothly. Also, it would help if you considered choosing one more person as an alternate. In doing this, you’re making sure that someone will be there when that day comes, ready, and able to take control and get things rolling in a precise and efficient manner.

Requirements for a Last Will

For the document to be valid and hold up its legal force, you must be of legal age and have the ability to make complex decisions for yourself. If this is the case, then you can fill out the last will, making sure that you include:

  • Your signature, signed and dated in the presence of two witnesses
  • A will written by hand
  • A list of all beneficiaries, including their names, addresses, and the last four of their social security numbers.

A Will Is Not Set in Stone

We all know that things in life change. From one minute to the next, we’re thrown in one or another direction. Just like death is unpredictable, so can be life, sometimes calling for changes to be made. If that is the case, you don’t have to fret; your will is not set in stone. To change it, you have a few options, both of which may require your family attorney’s assistance.

To change or revoke your will, you can file a new one, which will automatically take over and cancel the previous or file all of the proper paperwork to cancel your will. Either way, you don’t have to worry about your will being the last and final thoughts. You have the power to change it in the event of significant life changes or if anything is to happen from one day to the next.

Fill out a Will and Rest in Peace

One of the best things that come with creating a last will is the sense of relief that you feel when you know that you have taken care of business. You can sit back and relax, knowing that the future of your family is secured. Don’t let the things you’ve built throughout your entire life go to the state and get juggled around. Take action and fill out a Pennsylvania last will and testament today. You can find a free template on our website, along with guidance on filling it out correctly. Use the downloadable template or take advantage of a convenient online step-by-step last will builder.

Other Pennsylvania Forms By Type

Other Last Will and Testament Forms By State