How to Create an Online Will: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your family and assets. Yet a majority of people delay this task.

The good news is that making a will has never been easier, thanks to online tools. An online will allows you to create a legal last will and testament from wherever you can access the internet. And, it usually takes only 10 to 20 minutes and usually under an hour. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to create a will online, explain why online wills are becoming so popular, and ensure your online will is valid and secure. By the end, you’ll know how to protect your loved ones with a legally-binding will – all without needing to visit a lawyer in person.

What Is an Online Will?

An online will is a legally valid will that you create using a web-based service or software instead of drafting it on paper with an attorney. In essence, it’s the same last will and testament document – outlining how you want your property distributed and who will care for any minor children after your death – but created digitally. Online will platforms guide you through a series of questions and then generate a customized will based on your answers. You typically fill in information about your beneficiaries (the people who will inherit your assets), your executor (the person who will carry out your wishes), any guardians for children or pets, and specific gifts or property distributions.

Is an online will legal? Yes – an online will holds the same legal weight as one written by a lawyer, as long as you execute it properly according to your state’s laws. You need to be mentally competent when you create your will. Most states require two adult witnesses to watch you sign the will and then sign it themselves for the will to be valid and many require notarization​. Gentreo lets you know what you need to do to execute your will according to the laws of your state.

A few states may allow online notarization or remote witnessing, but generally the traditional signing requirements still apply to wills created online. In short, “online will” simply refers to the preparation process; once printed and signed with witnesses, it becomes a legal will. (A handful of states have started recognizing fully electronic wills, but even those require specific procedures.) Always follow the instructions your chosen service provides to make sure your online will meets your state’s legal standards.

Why Create a Will Online?

If you’ve been procrastinating on writing a will, doing it online can make the process much easier and more affordable. Here are some key benefits of creating a will online:

• Convenience and Speed: You can complete an online will at your own pace, from your couch or kitchen table, without scheduling lawyer meetings. This is especially helpful during busy times or if an urgent need arises.
• Affordability: Online will services are typically far cheaper than hiring an estate attorney. You often pay a flat fee or small subscription instead of thousands in legal fees.  In contrast, working with a lawyer to draft a will can cost $1,000 to $3,000 for the initial document, plus additional fees for future changes​. For people with straightforward needs, an online will can deliver huge cost savings.
• Ease of Use: The best online will platforms are very user-friendly. They walk you through each section with plain-language questions (for example, “Do you have children under 18? What are their names?”). You don’t need to understand “legalese” – the software turns your answers into the proper legal wording. If you’re unsure about something, you can often save your progress and come back later, rather than feeling on the spot as you might in an attorney’s office. According to Gentreo’s Chief Legal Officer, online tools let people work on estate planning at their own pace and learn as they go, instead of feeling rushed​.
• State-Specific Guidance: Reputable online will services like Gentreo tailor your will to your state’s requirements. Estate laws vary by state (for example, who can serve as a witness or executor, or whether you can disinherit a spouse). Online platforms usually ask where you live up front and then make sure the final will includes any state-specific clauses needed to be valid. They essentially do the legal homework for you, which gives you confidence that your will is compliant.
• Extra Features: Many services bundle other useful estate planning tools with an online will. For instance, Gentreo’s will package also includes a health care proxy and power of attorney document at no extra charge, plus a digital vault to store documents.   These extras add value and convenience that you wouldn’t get from a DIY paper will kit.

In summary, creating your will online can save you time, money, and hassle.  However, if you have a very complex estate or special circumstances, you may still want to consult an attorney for personalized advice. For most people, an online will is a smart, efficient way to finally check “write my will” off the to-do list.

Are Online Wills Legal?

A common concern is whether a will made online will actually hold up in court. The answer is yes – a will created through an online service is legal and valid as long as you follow your state’s execution requirements. These requirements apply to all wills, whether drafted by a lawyer or by you:

• Witnesses: Nearly every state mandates that the will is signed in the presence of at least two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries​. Those witnesses must also sign the will. This formality is what makes the document legally executable. Gentreo tells you what is needed for your state.
• Signature: You, as the person making the will (the “testator”), must sign the will. If you physically can’t, most states allow directing someone to sign on your behalf in your presence.
• Notarization: Follow your Gentreo created will to find out if notarization is needed in your state.
• Print vs. Electronic: In many states, you will print out the will you created online and then sign it on paper with witnesses. A few states have passed laws allowing electronic wills (e-wills) where everything can be done digitally. If your state allows e-wills and your service supports it, you might be able to sign electronically via webcam with an online notary. But if not, assume you’ll need to put pen to paper. The online service will give you explicit instructions for making your will legal.
• Age and Capacity: You must be a legal adult (18 in most states) and of sound mind when signing. Online will platforms typically include a clause in the document stating you meet these criteria.

Bottom line: Online wills are legal. Just be sure to complete that final step of signing and witnessing. If you follow through, your online will is just as enforceable as a lawyer-drafted one – it directs the probate court how to distribute your estate, and it ensures your wishes are honored.

Steps to Create an Online Will

Making a will online is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step overview of how to create an online will:

1. Choose a Trusted Online Will Service: Start by selecting a reputable online will platform. Look for a service that offers state-specific documents, strong security, and good customer reviews. (Gentreo, for example, was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top will-making programs​). Sign up for an account – often you only need an email and password to get started.
2. Gather Your Key Information: Before you begin the will interview, gather details about your assets and wishes. Make a list of major assets (real estate, bank accounts, investments, valuable personal property) and who should inherit each. Think about whom you want as your executor (the person who will settle your affairs) and any alternate executors. If you have minor children, decide on a guardian to raise them. Having this information ready will make the process faster​.
3. Answer the Online Questionnaire: The will service will walk you through a series of questions or form fields. You’ll provide your name and address, identify your beneficiaries and what each should receive, name your executor and any guardians, and specify any other wishes (like funeral preferences or charitable donations). Take your time to answer thoroughly. Many platforms allow you to save and come back if needed. The guided process simplifies the complex legal language into simple Q&A – for instance, adding beneficiaries, listing assets, and assigning executors is usually done through clear prompts​..
4. Review the Draft Will: After you input everything, the software will generate your will document. Carefully review it on screen. Make sure names are spelled correctly and that the distributions match your intentions. Check that all sections (like the executor clause, guardianship clause, etc.) are included as expected. If something looks off, most services let you go back and edit before finalizing.
5. Download and Execute the Will: Once you’re satisfied, download and print your will (or follow the platform’s instructions for electronic signing if applicable in your state). To execute it legally, sign your will in front of two witnesses (and have them sign too) as discussed above. The service may provide a checklist or even a cover sheet for witnesses to sign, depending on the state. Gentreo, for instance, provides state-specific guidance on proper signing​. Completing this step makes your online will an official legal document.
6. Store Your Will Safely: After signing, keep the original will in a safe but accessible place. Many people use a home safe or fireproof box. Avoid hiding it where no one can find it. You might also upload a copy to a secure digital vault if your service offers one (Gentreo includes a Digital Family Vault for storing and sharing documents). Make sure your executor (and maybe a close family member) knows where the will is stored. With an online service, you can often share your will electronically – for example, Gentreo allows instant sharing of your will with trusted loved ones via its platform.
7. Update Your Will as Life Changes: One big advantage of online wills is how easy it is to update your documents. Major life events – marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, acquiring a new property, etc. – are all reasons to revisit your will. Most online will services let you log in and update your answers or add codicils at any time. Regularly reviewing your will (experts suggest every 3–5 years) ensures it still reflects your wishes. With a service like Gentreo, updates are typically included, so you can keep your will current without additional hefty legal bills​.

By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive will online from start to finish. It may feel daunting at first, but the software guidance makes it quite manageable. Many users are pleasantly surprised at how quick and empowering the process feels once they get started – you’re taking control of your legacy on your own terms.

Choosing the Best Online Will Service

With several online will makers available (Trust&Will, FreeWill, GoodTrust, RocketLawyer, LegalZoom), how do you pick the best one for your needs? Here are some factors to consider when choosing an online will service (and why Gentreo is an example of a strong choice):

• Legal Compliance: The service should produce wills that comply with laws in your state. Check if they mention state-specific customization. The best platforms have attorneys on staff who keep the templates up-to-date with each state’s requirements. You want peace of mind that your will won’t be rejected due to a technicality.
• Comprehensive Documents: Many people need more than just a will. Look for packages that include other estate planning essentials – for example, a durable financial power of attorney and a health care proxy (medical power of attorney). Gentreo’s plan includes a will, living will, health care proxy, living trust and power of attorney all for one price​. Having all these documents in one place ensures your entire estate plan is covered, not just your will.
• User Experience: A clean, easy interface with helpful prompts is important, especially if you’re not familiar with legal terms. Browse screenshots or reviews. Is the flow of questions straightforward? Is there an explanation text or a help center for clarification? A well-designed platform will make the experience smooth rather than frustrating.
• Guidance and Support: Consider what kind of support is available. Some services offer customer support via phone or chat if you have technical questions while filling out the will.  
• Security and Storage: You’ll be entering very personal data (names of family members, asset info) – ensure the site uses encryption and secure protocols to protect your privacy. Also, check what options you have for storing and accessing your completed will. Gentreo, for example, provides a secure digital vault where your documents reside and can be shared with those you designate. This adds convenience (no worrying about losing the paper copy) and safety (your sensitive information is protected).
• Reputation and Reviews: Research what independent reviewers and customers say. Has a trusted source rated the service highly? (Gentreo was highlighted by U.S. News & World Report as a top online will program​, and Kiplinger and AARP have also noted Gentreo’s offerings.) Reading recent customer testimonials can also reveal if the service delivers on its promises, and if users feel it’s worth the cost.
• Cost Transparency: Finally, compare pricing. Some online will tools are free upfront (e.g., offering a basic will for $0) but might upsell other features. Others have a one-time fee or an annual subscription. Decide what fits your budget. Keep in mind the value you’re getting – an all-inclusive service for $100–$200 that covers your will and other documents and allows updates is often a great deal versus paying an attorney each time you need changes.

Take the time to pick the right platform before you begin. The best online will service for you is one that you feel comfortable with and confident in. If you’re reading this on Gentreo’s blog, you’re already looking at a provider that specializes in comprehensive online estate planning for families. Gentreo not only makes will creation simple, but also provides robust tools for protecting your documents and keeping them up to date as life goes on.

Don’t Wait to Secure Your Legacy

Every adult – regardless of age or wealth – should have a will. If you’ve been putting it off, using an online will creator can be the perfect solution to get it done now. It’s simple, affordable, and you can do it on your schedule. By following the steps above, you could literally finish your will this afternoon and gain the peace of mind that your wishes are documented.

Remember, a will only takes effect after you pass away, but life is unpredictable. Having a valid will in place means your loved ones are protected from uncertainty or disputes. Without a will, state law will decide who gets your property, which may not align with what you wanted. Creating a will is an act of care for your family’s future.

Call to action: Ready to create your will online? Gentreo, www.gentreo.com, is here to help. With Gentreo’s easy online will service, you can create a legal will (plus other key estate documents) in about 20 minutes.  

Don’t wait until it’s too late; start your estate planning journey with Gentreo today. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your loved ones but also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legacy is secure.  Click HERE to join now.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or estate planning professional for personalized guidance.