Updated March 16, 2023
A Pennsylvania last will and testament is a legal document used for estate-planning purposes that is instrumental in determining how a testator (the person creating the will) wishes for their assets to be distributed after their death. A will provides detailed information regarding the portion of the estate each beneficiary shall receive and any additional conditions the testator wishes to stipulate. Beneficiaries are typically family, friends, children, and even charitable organizations—but the testator can name any individual or entity as a beneficiary of their estate. Wills must be signed by the testator in the presence of two (2) witnesses in order to be legally executed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Notarization can be sought to add an additional layer of legal protection; this is optional, however. The testator may revoke or change their will at any time.
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Laws
Signing Requirements
If the Testator is unable to sign his/her name, leaving any kind of mark as a substitute will suffice. Whether it’s a signature or a mark, there must be two (2) Witnesses to attest the Testator’s signature and sign the will themselves in the Testator’s presence. (Title 20 § 2502)
State Definition
“Will” means a written will, codicil, or other testamentary writing.
Related Forms
Download: Adobe PDF
Durable (Financial) Power of Attorney
Download: Adobe PDF