You no longer have to sit in a lawyer’s office to put your affairs in order. Estate planning online lets you create the core documents, and in many cases get them notarized, from home. Here is what you can do online, what still needs extra care, and how to start.
What you can set up online
The main estate planning documents can all be prepared online:
- A last will and testament, to say who inherits what
- A living trust, to pass assets outside of probate
- A power of attorney, so someone can act on your finances if you cannot
- A health care proxy, to name who makes medical decisions for you
How estate planning online works
You answer guided questions, the platform generates documents that fit your state, and you download them to sign. Many documents can then be notarized online over secure video. It is faster and far cheaper than the traditional route, and you can do it at your own pace.
Start your estate plan online, and we will handle the notarization.
What still needs extra care
Online is convenient, but signing rules still apply. In New York, a will needs two witnesses, and a notarized self-proving affidavit is strongly recommended, see does a will need to be notarized in New York? A power of attorney and other documents have their own signing and notarization requirements. That is where we come in: we make sure your documents are correctly notarized so they hold up.
Where to start
Our Estate Planning Center walks you through each document, and we handle the notarization, in person or online. If your situation is complex, an attorney is still worth it, but for many people, planning online plus proper notarization is all it takes.
Frequently asked questions
Is an online will legally valid?
Yes, if it meets your state’s signing and witness rules. In New York that means signing in front of two witnesses.
Can I notarize my estate documents online?
Many can be notarized online over secure video. Wills still require witnesses in addition to any notarization.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not always. For a straightforward estate, online documents plus proper notarization are often enough. Complex estates benefit from an attorney.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For complex estates, consult a licensed attorney.
Need any document notarized online?
Do it over secure video in minutes, from any U.S. state. NotarEase NYC may earn a referral credit when you notarize through our partner, at no extra cost to you.