Your Will is only legally enforceable when it has been correctly signed and witnessed. We've created a quick checklist below to take all the guesswork out for you. Before you rush ahead and start signing though, you should print out your Will and read it back to front. Make sure you understand everything - if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with us, or an independent legal adviser.
Step 1: Find two witnesses
You'll need two witnesses to watch you sign your Will. These witness should be:
Over 18 years old
Not your partner
Not a beneficiary under your Will
Not legally blind
While these requirements aren't mandatory in all jurisdictions, our legal advisers recommend ensuring your witnesses are as impartial as possible. For further information, see our guidance notes.
Step 2: Sign the document properly
Using blue or black pen, proceed to sign every page of your Will. Make sure the numbers on the pages are consecutive and complete so that you don't sign an incomplete Will. You should state in front of your witnesses that you have read and understood the Will, and that you intend it to be binding as a legally valid Will.
After watching you sign the Will, both witnesses should sign each page of the Will too, using the same pen.Witnesses should sign at the bottom of each page of the Will, where designated, and ensure their details are accurately filled in any provided sections.
Step 3: Store it safely
After you've all signed, make sure to store your Will someplace safe, making sure a family member or your Executor know where it is and how to access it. Safewill also allows you to securely store a digital copy of your signed Will, giving you the added peace of mind that your Will can always be located. You can even notify your Executor that your Will is stored with us, providing an added measure of security that your document can be accessed by those who need it, when they need it.To preserve the integrity of your Will, avoid unstapling or punching holes in the document, which could lead to legal complications. Use a protective plastic sleeve or file to keep it secure and undamaged.
Make sure you review your Will regularly, and keep it up to date with Safewill's subscription service.If changes to your Will are necessary, draft a new version with the updates and follow the same signing process with two witnesses. Destroy all copies of the old Will to avoid confusion about the valid version.