Document Signing Requirements in Tennessee
Find witness, notary, and remote online notarization (RON) requirements for wills, trusts, healthcare proxies, and powers of attorney.
Tennessee Will Requirements
Wills excluded from remote notarization
Requirement
Tennessee
Witnesses Required
2 adults
Notarization
Optional
Digital Signing Options
Will Details
Detail
Tennessee
Self-Proving Affidavit
Available at probate - witness affidavit can substitute for live testimony
Holographic (Handwritten) Wills
Recognized
Beneficiaries as Witnesses
Allowed
This tool provides general information about document execution requirements. Requirements may vary based on specific circumstances. Consult a licensed attorney for advice.Data verified 2026-02-13
Frequently Asked Questions
Tennessee has specific requirements for each type of estate planning document. Wills require 2 witnesses. Healthcare proxies require 2 witnesses. Financial POAs may require notarization for practical acceptance. Trusts are recommended to be notarized.
Tennessee requires 2 adult witnesses to sign a will. Beneficiaries can technically serve as witnesses, though using disinterested witnesses is recommended.
Tennessee has fully authorized Remote Online Notarization (RON). Wills are excluded from remote notarization and require in-person signing. Healthcare proxies and financial POAs can both be notarized remotely. Documents notarized via out-of-state RON are also accepted.
Tennessee requires 2 witnesses for a healthcare proxy. A notary can substitute for witnesses. Certain people cannot serve as witnesses: the person named as your healthcare agent.
Tennessee recommends notarization for practical acceptance by financial institutions. 2 witnesses are also required. Recording is required if the POA will be used for real estate transactions.
Tennessee does not require witnesses for a revocable living trust. Notarization is recommended for validity and property transfers. Trusts can be notarized remotely via video call.
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