What Is an Online Will and How Does It Work?

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Creating a will might not be at the top of your to-do list—but it should be. And thanks to modern tools, it’s easier than ever. If you’ve heard the term online will but aren’t sure what it means or whether it’s right for you, you’re in the right place.

Let’s walk through what an online will is, how it works, and why using an online will service like Gentreo can help you take control of your future with confidence, simplicity, and peace of mind.

What Is an Online Will?

An online will is a legally valid last will and testament that you create using an internet-based platform. It allows you to document your wishes for how your assets will be distributed, name guardians for your children or pets, designate an executor to carry out your wishes, and more—all without setting foot in a lawyer’s office.

In short, it’s a will… just made easier.

Unlike writing a will by hand or paying for costly legal consultations, online wills use step-by-step guidance and intuitive platforms to make estate planning accessible, affordable, and secure for everyday people.

Why Create a Will in the First Place?

A will ensures your wishes are known and legally enforceable after you pass away. Without one, the state decides what happens to your assets and in cases where there is not another legal parent you minor children and it may not be what you would have wanted.

Here’s what a will typically includes:

  • Who inherits your assets (money, home, car, sentimental items)
  • Who becomes the legal guardian of your children or pets
  • Who is responsible for managing your estate (the executor)
  • Specific gifts or charitable donations
  • Instructions for settling debts and taxes

Without a will, your loved ones could face unnecessary stress, conflict, court involvement, and delays—at a time when they should be focused on healing.

The Benefits of Creating a Will Online

More and more Americans are turning to online wills. Why? Because they offer real benefits:

1. It’s Easy

Creating a will online takes about 10-20 minutes with a platform like Gentreo. You don’t need to understand legal jargon or make multiple appointments. Everything is explained in plain English.

2. It’s Affordable

Traditional estate planning can cost thousands of dollars in attorney fees. Online wills are a fraction of the cost, with Gentreo offering full estate planning tools at affordable prices.

3. It’s Convenient

Whether you’re at home in your pajamas or on the go, you can create or update your will anytime from your phone or computer.

4. It’s Private

With Gentreo, www.gentreo.com, you control who sees your documents and when. You can store and share your completed will and you can also save a scanned in copy of your witnessed and signed and most likely notarized (depending on your state) will securely in our Gentreo Digital Family Vault, https://www.gentreo.com/family-digital-vault, making access quick and simple when it matters most.

5. It’s Legally Valid

As long as you meet your state’s requirements—usually signing in front of witnesses and in most states and getting it notarized—your online will is just as valid as one written by a lawyer.

How Does an Online Will Work?

The process is simpler than you might think. Here’s how it typically works with Gentreo:

Step 1: Create Your Account

Sign up online and answer a few questions to personalize your estate plan.

Step 2: Answer Guided Questions

You’ll be prompted to enter your information—beneficiaries, guardians, executor, and any special wishes. The platform helps you understand your choices.

Step 3: Review Your Will

The platform automatically generates your will based on your answers. You can review it, make edits, and ensure everything is correct.

Step 4: Download and Sign

Once you’re happy with your will, download it and sign it according to your state’s laws. This typically involves signing in front of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries and again typically in front of a notary – when your document prints out, it will give you specific instructions for the requirements in your state.

Step 5: Store and Share

Upload your signed document to your Gentreo Digital Family Vault. You can give loved ones and your executor access.

And you’re done! You now have a legal will—and peace of mind.

Who Should Use an Online Will?

You don’t need to be wealthy to need a will. You just need to care about what happens to your family and your assets after you’re gone.

An online will can be a good choice for:

  • Parents who want to name guardians for their children
  • Pet owners who want to ensure their furry friends are cared for
  • Adults  who want to protect their choices and what they’ve built
  • Retirees planning to pass down their legacy
  • Anyone who wants to avoid expensive legal fees and create a plan at their own pace

Even if your estate is more complex, starting with an online will can help you get your thoughts organized and give you a strong foundation.

Are Online Wills Legal in My State?

Yes—online wills are legal in all 50 states when executed properly. The key is ensuring your will is signed and witnessed and possibly notarized in accordance with your state’s laws.

At Gentreo, we guide you through your state’s specific requirements so your will is not only complete—but valid. While a few states allow fully digital wills (including witnessing and signing online), most still require you to print and sign a physical copy.

We help you know exactly what’s required where you live.

What’s the Difference Between an Online Will and a Traditional Will?

FeatureOnline Will (Gentreo)Traditional Will (Lawyer)
Time to Complete~20 minutesWeeks (appointments, drafts)
CostLow (under $150/year)High (often $1,000+)
Legal GuidanceStep-by-step promptsIn-person advice
UpdatesEasy, anytimeTime-consuming and costly
StorageDigital Vault & paper copyPaper copy only (unless you scan)
Access24/7 from anywhereMust contact lawyer

The takeaway? For most people, an online will is more than enough. It’s faster, more affordable, and gives you full control.

Gentreo: The Go-To Online Will Solution

At Gentreo, we believe estate planning should be simple, affordable, and accessible to everyone. That’s why we created a platform that empowers you to take control of your future—without confusing legal jargon or overwhelming paperwork.

With Gentreo, you can:

  • Create a legally valid online will in as little as 10-20 minutes
  • Update your will anytime as life changes
  • Securely store your will and other estate documents in your Digital Family Vault
  • Share access with loved ones so they’re ready when the time comes

We’re not just a website—we’re your partner in protecting your family, your pets, your assets, and your legacy.

Start Today—Your Future Deserves It

You don’t need to wait until retirement or a crisis to get your affairs in order. Whether you’re 25, 35, 45, 55, or 85, it’s never too early—or too late—to plan ahead.

Creating an online will is one of the most important steps you can take for your loved ones. With Gentreo, it’s never been easier.

👉 Ready to get started? Visit www.gentreo.com and create your online will today.

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.

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