What Do I Need to Sign My Will in Pennsylvania?

Notarization is not required for a will to be valid in Pennsylvania.20 Pa.C.S. § 2502Verified May 27, 2026 However, notarization Makes the will self-proving, avoiding witness testimony at probate.

Pennsylvania has authorized Remote Online Notarization for many documents, but wills are specifically excluded.20 Pa.C.S. § 2502Verified May 27, 2026 In-person notarization is required.

To execute a will in Pennsylvania: Get the document notarized (standard practice, not required). Keep the original will in a secure location. Inform your executor of the will location. Wet signature and in-person notary required

Generally yes. Pennsylvania isn't a UPC state, but its probate code accepts a will that was valid under the law of the place it was signed. Where things get sticky is at probate intake: a foreign will without a self-proving affidavit forces the witnesses to be located and either appear or sign declarations, which delays the case. Re-executing on a Pennsylvania form, or adding a Pennsylvania self-proving affidavit, removes that step. The document portability tool walks through the recognition tests by state.