How to Make an Online Will In Virginia

What You Need to Know about Creating a Will Online in Virginia

In Virginia, you can create a will online. This offers a cost-effective and convenient solution for protecting your legacy and your loved ones. The online will creation experience offers legal guidance on your own time, offering you the time and space to clearly think through important decisions. 

Online wills are also more accessible to update, an activity that should be done on a regular basis. Being proactive about creating a will is one of the best things you can do for your family, as our time is never guaranteed. Keep reading as we explore everything you need to know about creating a will online in Virginia. 

How much does it cost to create a Last Will and Testament in Virginia?

The cost of creating a last will and testament in Virginia can vary depending on the size of the estate, the method you choose to create the Last Will and Testament, and so forth. 

The two main options for creating a Last Will and Testament are online and one-on-one with an attorney. Creating your Last Will and Testament online can be more cost-effective without any compromise to the quality of its contents. At Trust & Will, our Will Plan is only $199 for individuals and $299 for couples, with payment plans available. 

You can also upgrade to our membership plan for unlimited updates and to store critical documents in our Digital Safe.  Avoid the hourly fees of a costly attorney from adding up as you take the time you need to create a Virginia will online with the guidance of our team of legal professionals. 

Are online wills legal in Virginia?

When we refer to online wills, there are two perspectives; a will created online and printed with a wet signature or a will created and stored digitally with an electronic signature. 

In Virginia, both types of online wills can be valid in a Virginia court of law as long as they abide by laws. Laws include that the will is signed by the testator with two witnesses 18 years of age or older present, the testator is of sound mind, and the will is in writing.  

In some states, laws may require that a will is in physical form (printed) with a wet signature signed in the presence of witnesses. 

In 2021, Virginia passed a law (Uniform Electronic Wills Act), stating that testators could execute a valid will electronically. Trust & Will currently does not offer this product or service. However, we are always expanding and improving upon our platform to better serve our members. 

What are Virginia's requirements?

The laws for wills can vary by state. If you move from Virginia you may want to consider this as your will may need to be updated. By creating an online will, making updates can be done on your own time with straightforward access. No need to find a new attorney or spend hours researching state laws, Trust & Will will guide you every step of the way. With that being said, here are some of Virginia’s laws for wills. 

• Will must be in writing (i.e. verbal wills are not valid).

• Wills must be signed (with two competent witnesses present).

• Exception: If the will is handwritten in the testator’s handwriting and signed, witnesses do not need to be present. 

• Testator must be 18 years of age or older, and of sound mind. 

Can you write your own last will and testament in Virginia?

Virginia laws allow a testor to write their own last will and testament by hand or digitally. While there’s no law requiring a will to be created with a licensed attorney, it’s one of the best things you can invest in. A will is one thing you don’t want to leave for interpretation or error. 

Do I need an attorney for a will in Virginia?

You do not need an attorney to create a will in Virginia. However, you will have better peace of mind knowing that your will is legally valid in your state. While you may choose to use an attorney, a great solution is creating your will through a trusted estate planning service like Trust & Will. All of our wills are designed by attorneys, are state-specific, and legally valid. Plus, we make it easy by guiding you through the process step-by-step. We also have member support to help guide you should you ever need additional assistance.

Does a will need to be notarized in Virginia?

In Virginia, a will must be signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who are at least 18 years old. While notarization isn’t required, it can help avoid complications. Witnesses shouldn’t be beneficiaries or have a financial interest in the will.

Virginia also allows handwritten (holographic) wills, which only need the testator’s signature—but proving their authenticity can be challenging. To ensure your will is legally valid and protects your loved ones, it’s best to have it properly signed, witnessed, and notarized (if you choose).

A will only takes effect after you’re gone—so you won’t be around to clear up any questions. Make sure your wishes are honored by working with our team of experts today.

Do wills have to be filed with the court in Virginia?

In Virginia, wills are not filed with the court until after the testator’s death—and they only become valid at that time. That’s why having a clear, well-documented will is essential.

Your will should name beneficiaries, an executor, and other key details. If it’s unclear or missing information, your loved ones may face delays or additional legal steps. In some cases, the court may end up making decisions on your behalf.

Creating a legally sound will ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Work with our team to make the process simple and stress-free.

Does a will have to be recorded in Virginia?

After a testator (the person who wrote the will) has passed, their will can be filed for probate in the state they lived in. For example, if they lived in Virginia, the will would be filed and recorded in Virginia. 

If you want to help your loved ones avoid probate, consider creating a trust. 

How do you create a will in Virginia online?

At Trust & Will, we are dedicated to providing online estate planning services that are affordable and comprehensive. From step-by-step guidance through the estate planning process to secure digital storage for your documents, we simplify the estate planning process for you and your loved ones. 

With everything in one place you can seamlessly make updates, and sleep in peace knowing your loved ones will be taken care of. Create your will online at Trust & Will the smart and modern way in just 3 simple steps. 

• Answer a few simple questions

• Instantly download or ship your documents

• Sign and notarize at your convenience

At Trust & Will, we keep things simple. You can create a fully customizable, state-specific estate plan from the comfort of your own home. Take our free quiz to see where you should get started, or compare our different estate planning and settlement  options today!

Is there a question here we didn’t answer? Browse more topics in our learn center, visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page,  or chat with our member support!

Trust & Will is an online service providing legal forms and information. We are not a law firm and we do not provide legal advice.

Create Your Will Online in Virginia Today