Will Signing Instructions
England & Wales
To be legally valid under the Wills Act 1837, your will must be signed and witnessed correctly. If it isn't, it may fail and your estate could be dealt with under intestacy rules.
1
Choose two witnesses
You need two witnesses who will watch you sign and then sign themselves.
Witnesses must be:
- 18 years or older
- Of sound mind
- Not a beneficiary (someone receiving a gift in your will)
- Not the spouse or civil partner of a beneficiary (otherwise that gift may be void)
- Physically present and able to see you sign (same room)
Notes:
- Best practice: use independent people (friends, neighbours, colleagues) and avoid close family where possible.
- An executor can witness only if they do not receive a gift under the will.
2
Print the will (don't sign yet)
- Print the final version.
- Check there are no blanks or unfinished sections.
- Do not sign until both witnesses are with you.
3
Sign and witness it (one continuous session)
All of this should happen in one go, with both witnesses present together throughout.
- 1You sign at the end using blue or black ink.
- 2If it has multiple pages (recommended): you initial each page in front of the witnesses.
- 3Each witness then signs in your presence.
- 4Each witness should also print their full name and address near their signature (occupation optional).
- 5If multiple pages (recommended): witnesses initial each page too.
- 6Date the will using the full date (for example, 25 December 2025).
4
If you can't physically sign
Someone can sign at your direction, but it must be done in your presence and both witnesses' presence, and be clearly at your direction.
We strongly recommend seeking legal advice if you are unable to physically sign your will yourself.
5
Changes or a new version
- Don't write on or edit a signed will.
- To change it: update your will in your account; we'll review and email an amended will.
- Treat the amended will like a new will: print, sign, and witness again using the steps above.
- Once the new one is correctly signed, destroy old signed originals to avoid confusion.
6
Store it safely
- Keep the original safe (probate usually requires the original).
- Store securely (home safe, solicitor, or professional storage).
- Tell your executors where it is.
- Keep copies for reference, clearly marked COPY, and don't sign them.
If anything is unclear, email hello@willdone.co.uk or see the Signing Instructions FAQ at willdone.co.uk/resources.