Free Texas Will Forms or an Attorney-Designed Will?
If you are single or married, your plan is to leave everything to a spouse or children in equal shares, and no one needs property held in trust, the free will forms approved by the Supreme Court of Texas may do the job. If you have children under 30, or want your documents prepared within a lawyer-client relationship, a Will from an attorney-designed system costs little more and does more.
Questions and answers
What are the free Texas will forms?
In 2023 the Supreme Court of Texas approved four will forms for self-represented Texans: single, widowed or divorced, or married, each with or without children. They are free at txcourts.gov/forms in English and bilingual English–Spanish versions. The Court described them as not a substitute for the advice of an attorney.
What do the free forms do well?
They meet Texas signing requirements when properly executed, they are free, and they suit very simple plans.
Where do they fall short?
Property for young adults passes outright at 18, not in trust; no individualized assembly; no one assesses whether the form suits you.
What does the $125 Will add?
A protective trust for beneficiaries under 30 or unable to manage property; a trust to coordinate life insurance and retirement accounts; and preparation within a limited-scope attorney-client relationship, with 30 days of revisions.
Either way, how must a Texas Will be signed?
In writing, signed by you, with two witnesses at least 14 years of age who sign in your presence (Tex. Est. Code § 251.051). A self-proving affidavit, signed before a notary, spares the witnesses from testifying later. See How a Texas Will Has to Be Signed.
Related: Wills, Powers of Attorney and Directives in Texas — Questions and Answers and Online Client Services.
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