As a Louisiana resident, you can create a will online. When done correctly, you can create a comprehensive will that secures your legacy, protects your loved ones, and offers peace of mind. While leaving our beautiful world is not something we typically want to think about, planning ahead is always important. Keep reading to learn more about online wills in Louisiana.
What you need to know about creating a will online in Louisiana
Estate planning is critical to help ensure that your loved ones are taken care of after you have passed. Creating a will is an essential part of that planning, but it can feel like a daunting task and many don’t know where to begin. In a digital world, many individuals opt to create their will online. However, going the digital route when creating a will may raise questions about the legality, associated costs, and details..
Each state has varying requirements for enforceable wills, so it is important to understand what your state requires before moving forward. Here are some things you should know about creating a will online in Louisiana.
Wills can be created online in Louisiana, but require a wet signature, signed with two witnesses present.
For an online will, or any will, to be valid it will need to be printed and in physical form.
Wills can include your last wishes for your burial or legacy or notes for loved ones. The intention is to document, to protect your estate, and ensure your loved ones know how to carry out your wishes.
Wills should be created before you are sick or elderly. You should always have a will in place.
Wills can be updated on a regular basis to encompass new assets, family members, or other changes.
How much does it cost to create a will in Louisiana?
With a few different options when it comes to drafting a will in Louisiana, associated costs can vary. Louisiana residents that wish to enlist the help of a lawyer may spend more than those that leverage an online will service. Those that hire an attorney and work 1-on-1 with them can expect to pay anywhere between $300-$1000 at a minimum. The costs can vary depending on the attorney’s pricing structure,as well as the complexity of the will.
Creating a will online in Louisiana is often an affordable, convenient solution. Online services can vary in cost depending on features,customizations, and the size of the estate. An Individual Will Plan offered by Trust & Will starts at $199 ($299 for couples.)
Are online wills legal in Louisiana?
Online wills are legal in Louisiana, so long as they are drafted properly and meet all of the legal criteria.
Estate laws are unique in Louisiana, meaning it is essential to follow state laws very closely when drafting, executing, and witnessing a will. Wills that are drafted online through a trusted service such as Trust & Will are structured to conform to state specific regulations and can be utilized legally in the state of Louisiana.
Can I write my own will in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana residents can write their own will as long as state regulations and requirements are met. A self-written will can be handwritten on paper (holographic) or digitally (notorial). Holographic wills in Louisiana must be written and signed by the testator completely in– their own hand. Notarial wills in Lousiana require witnesses and the testator- to sign before a Notary Public. In Louisiana, the testator must sign each individual page of their will.
Using a trusted online service to draft a will is largely preferred over self-written wills because these services allow for control with assurances that legal requirements will be met. Estate planning leaves no room for error if you want things to go smoothly after your passing.
How do you write a will in Louisiana online?
Writing a will in Louisiana online is a fairly straightforward process, especially when using reputable platforms that offer state-specific guidance and templates.
The testator will need to provide some basic information to include full legal name, address of residence, assets, and any beneficiaries.
Specify how the above listed assets are to be distributed in the event of your passing.
Designate an executor to carry out the instructions listed in your will after your passing.
Once the will template has been completed, follow state-specified execution requirements. In Louisiana, this includes signing in the presence of two witnesses and notarizing if possible.
At Trust & Will we’ll guide you step-by-step to create a will that covers all your bases and meets state requirements. All you’ll have to focus on are the decisions that mean the most to you.
What are Louisiana Last Will and Testament requirements ?
When it comes to drafting a Last Will and Testament in Louisiana, there are some specific requirements that must be met.
Requirements for the testator:
Be of sound mind.
Be 18 years of age or older.
Cognitive of the fact that you’re creating and signing a will.
Requirements once the will is drafted:
It must be signed by two witnesses.
If notarized, the will must be signed by the testator, witnesses, and notary at the same time and in the same room. Digitally notarized wills are not recognized in Louisiana.
The will must be clearly dated.
There may be additional requirements not listed above so it’s important to review all requirements specific to Louisiana.
Can I file a will without a lawyer in Louisiana?
Yes, after the death of the testator you can file a will without a lawyer in Louisiana. As long as you have a detailed plan for your estate, a designated executor, and a complete understanding of all state requirements and regulations, you do not need an attorney’s assistance to file a will in Louisiana.
Can I have my will notarized in Louisiana?
Yes, you can have your will notarized in Louisiana. A notarized will is the most formal presentation and less likely to procure issues in probate. Notaries can be found at many locations including some banks, printing service shops, libraries, and law offices. Mobile notaries may also be available in your area. Associated costs will vary by location but are generally very affordable.
Do wills have to be filed with court in Louisiana?
If a will goes through probate, it needs to be filed. This means that while you’re living, the will does not need to be filed. However if you pass the will may need to be filed if it goes to probate. Probate is the court supervised procedure in which all of the deceased’s assets will be legally distributed. This process, also called succession proceeding, can be lengthy, but a clear, proper, and legally adhering will can help ensure that this process goes smoothly.
Does a will have to be recorded in Louisiana?
Wills are recorded in Louisiana during the probate process. This is when a will becomes public record, although it can be made private in special circumstances. In the event that there is no will recorded, any assets pass through Louisiana's intestacy laws. In this instance, the deceased will have had no say in how their property is distributed. The importance of creating a legally compliant will and following required subsequent procedures cannot be understated.
Create Your will Online in Louisiana today
Take advantage of the convenience and peace of mind that Trust and Will online will creation has to offer. Built with every family in mind, our simple online platform and budget-conscious plans make estate planning more accessible than ever. Our quick and easy process delivers affordability, convenience, and takes the guesswork out of will drafting. If questions do arise, our chat and technical support is always available. Don’t leave your estate up for debate, put together an affordable estate plan today.
Take our free quiz to see where you should get started, or compare our different estate planning and settlement options today!
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Trust & Will is an online service providing legal forms and information. We are not a law firm and we do not provide legal advice.
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