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2026 District of Columbia probate costs, will execution requirements, trust laws, and intestacy rules.
See how trust laws, probate costs, and estate taxes differ. Useful if you own property in multiple states or are considering a move.
See a detailed breakdown of probate costs.
Requires probate court supervision to transfer assets
What's needed to create and execute a valid last will and testament.
Estimated probate costs including attorney fees, executor fees, and court costs.
With a valid will, you control who inherits - but it requires probate.
How easily you can create and sign your will digitally, including remote notarization options.
District of Columbia
Accepts out-of-state remote notarization
Electronic statute: D.C. Code § 18-901 et seq. (Uniform Electronic Wills Act)
Electronic wills authorized by D.C. Law 24-296 (eff. March 10, 2023). E-will must be readable as text at signing. Witnesses may be present via live audio-video technology if located in the US. Harmless error rule applies.
RON permanently authorized under D.C. Code § 1-1231.13a (added by D.C. Law 24-178, eff. Sept 21, 2022). D.C. Law 25-281 (Notarial Acts Clarification Amendment Act of 2024, eff. March 7, 2025) further clarified notarial act provisions. IPEN guidance published in E-Notary Handbook (July 10, 2023). Notaries must notify the Mayor before performing first RON and retain audio-visual recordings for 10 years.
How to modify your will after it's been signed and executed.
District of Columbia
District of Columbia authorizes electronic wills and electronic codicils. Paper wills require creating a new will or codicil with the same execution requirements.
This tool provides general information about District of Columbia estate planning laws and estimated costs. Actual requirements and costs may vary. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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