Last Will and Testament in Missouri
A simple will form for straightforward estates. A will is valid only if it is signed and witnessed exactly as your state requires (below); one that is not executed correctly may be ignored by the court. Larger estates, blended families, trusts for minor children or business interests are worth a lawyer's review.
What Missouri law says
| Requirements for a valid will | Any person of sound mind who is 18 or older, or a minor emancipated by court order, marriage or active military duty, may make a will. The will must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone at the testator's direction and in the testator's presence), and attested by two or more competent witnesses who sign in the testator's presence. Source: RSMo §§ 474.310, 474.320 |
|---|---|
| Self-proving affidavit | A will can be made self-proved at signing or at any later date: the testator and witnesses appear before an officer authorized to administer oaths (such as a notary), are sworn, and the officer attaches a certificate stating the will was properly signed and witnessed. Source: RSMo § 474.337 |
| Handwritten (holographic) wills | Missouri law has no exception for handwritten, unwitnessed wills; every will must be signed and attested by at least two competent witnesses. Source: RSMo § 474.320 |
Fill it in
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LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF [your full name]
I, [your full name], of [city, county and state], being of sound mind, make this my will and revoke all earlier wills and codicils.
1. Executor. I name [executor name] as personal representative (executor). If they cannot serve, I name [alternate executor name].
2. Specific gifts. I give [item or amount] to [beneficiary name].
3. Everything else. I give the rest of my property to [beneficiaries and shares]. If a beneficiary does not survive me by 30 days, their share goes to [alternate beneficiary].
4. Guardian. If I have minor children, I name [guardian name] as guardian, and [alternate guardian name] as alternate.
Signed on [date signed] at [city and state]. Signature: ____________________
Witnesses: we signed below in the presence of the person making this will and of each other, as required by state law. Witness 1: [witness 1 name and address] ____________ Witness 2: [witness 2 name and address] ____________
[Notary or self-proving affidavit, if your state provides one]
Last Will and Testament for other states · Missouri tenant rights
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.