What Do I Need to Sign My Will in Rhode Island?

Notarization is not required for a will to be valid in Rhode Island.R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-5-5Verified Jul 15, 2026

Rhode Island has authorized Remote Online Notarization for many documents, but wills are specifically excluded.R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-5-5Verified Jul 15, 2026 In-person notarization is required.

To execute a will in Rhode Island: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Keep the original will in a secure location. Wet signature and in-person signing required

Generally yes. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island form, or adding a Rhode Island self-proving affidavit, removes that step. The document portability tool walks through the recognition tests by state.