How Do I Sign Estate Documents?

It depends on your state. Most states allow family members to serve as witnesses as long as they are not beneficiaries of the will. Some states like California and Texas specifically disqualify interested parties (those who receive something under the will) from serving as witnesses, though the will may still be valid with the gift to that witness potentially voided.

In 50 of 51 jurisdictions, notarization is not part of executing a standard witnessed will — witness signatures complete it. Louisiana is the exception. Where the notary usually appears is the self-proving affidavit, which lets the will enter probate without locating the witnesses; 42 of 51 jurisdictions provide a statutory affidavit signed at execution. Select your state above for its affidavit procedure.

RON allows documents to be notarized via a secure video call with a commissioned remote notary. The signer and notary use identity verification technology and the session is recorded. Most states now authorize RON, though some exclude certain documents like wills.

It depends on your state and document type. 48 states have authorized Remote Online Notarization for most documents. However, some states specifically exclude wills from RON (e.g., Colorado, Louisiana, Texas). Healthcare proxies and powers of attorney are generally allowed for RON in states that have authorized it.