How to Make a Valid Will in Indiana
What Indiana law requires for a valid will: age, signing, witnesses, handwritten wills and self-proving affidavits.
Short answer: A person of sound mind who is at least 18 (or a younger member of the armed forces or merchant marine) may make a will. IC 29-1-5-1, 29-1-5-3
| Requirements for a valid will | A person of sound mind who is at least 18 (or a younger member of the armed forces or merchant marine) may make a will. Except for limited oral wills, the will-maker must, in the presence of two or more witnesses, indicate that the document is their will and sign it (or acknowledge their signature, or direct another person to sign in their presence). The witnesses must sign in the presence of the will-maker and of each other. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: IC 29-1-5-1, 29-1-5-3 |
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| Handwritten (holographic) wills | No. Indiana does not have a separate rule for handwritten wills; a written will must be signed by the will-maker and at least two witnesses to be valid. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: IC 29-1-5-3 |
| Self-proving affidavit | Yes. A will is self-proved by a self-proving clause, in the statutory wording or in substance the same, signed by the will-maker and the witnesses (signatures may be made under penalties for perjury). Notarization is not required. A clause may also be added after the will is signed. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: IC 29-1-5-3.1 |
More Indiana estate law
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- Who Inherits If You Die Without a Will in Indiana
- How Probate Works in Indiana
- Living Wills and Advance Directives in Indiana
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- Letters Testamentary in Indiana
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- All Indiana wills, probate and estate rules
FAQ
What makes a will valid in Indiana?
A person of sound mind who is at least 18 (or a younger member of the armed forces or merchant marine) may make a will. Except for limited oral wills, the will-maker must, in the presence of two or more witnesses, indicate that the document is their will and sign it (or acknowledge their signature, or direct another person to sign in their presence). The witnesses must sign in the presence of the will-maker and of each other.
Is a handwritten will valid in Indiana?
No. Indiana does not have a separate rule for handwritten wills; a written will must be signed by the will-maker and at least two witnesses to be valid.
Does a will need to be notarized in Indiana?
Yes. A will is self-proved by a self-proving clause, in the statutory wording or in substance the same, signed by the will-maker and the witnesses (signatures may be made under penalties for perjury). Notarization is not required. A clause may also be added after the will is signed.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.