What Do I Need to Sign My Will in South Dakota?
Witness, notary, and remote online notarization (RON) requirements for wills in South Dakota.
Frequently Asked Questions
South Dakota requires 2 witnesses for a will.SDCL 29A-2-502Verified May 27, 2026 Witnesses must be at least 18 years old.
Notarization is not required for a will to be valid in South Dakota.SDCL 29A-2-502Verified May 27, 2026 However, notarization Makes the will self-proving, avoiding witness testimony at probate.
South Dakota allows Remote Online Notarization (RON) for wills.SDCL 29A-2-502Verified May 27, 2026 The notarization can be completed via secure video call with an approved RON provider, without meeting in person. The state also accepts out-of-state RON.
To execute a will in South Dakota: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Get the document notarized (standard practice, not required). Wet signature required; notary step may be remote
Yes. South Dakota has adopted the Uniform Probate Code, which validates a will under any of three tests: it complied with the law of the place of execution, the law of the testator's domicile when signed, or the law of the testator's domicile at death (UPC § 2-506). A will signed in another state is recognized in South Dakota if any of those tests passes. The practical wrinkle is the self-proving affidavit — if the foreign will doesn't have one, witnesses may need to testify during probate. See the South Dakota document portability tool for the full breakdown.
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South Dakota Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering South Dakota probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
