Pennsylvania Will Requirements
If you live in Pennsylvania, a will that fails the state's execution rules is the same as having no will at all. This 2026 guide breaks down Pennsylvania's witness count, notarization rules, and whether handwritten wills are accepted — plus a faster, voice-guided way to draft yours with VoiceWill™.
How a will is executed in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires two adult witnesses to validly execute a will. Witnesses must be of legal age, mentally competent, and — in most cases — disinterested (not named as beneficiaries). notarization is optional in Pennsylvania but recommended to create a self-proving affidavit that simplifies probate.
Two witnesses required. Notarization is optional but recommended for a self-proving affidavit.
Witnesses and notarization in Pennsylvania
Choosing the right witnesses is one of the most common mistakes Pennsylvania residents make. A beneficiary witness can invalidate a bequest in many states. Pennsylvania attorneys generally recommend two clearly disinterested adults sign at the same time, in the testator's presence, and in each other's presence.
A self-proving affidavit is a short notarized statement attached to the will. It is not the will itself — it allows Pennsylvania probate courts to admit the will without calling the witnesses back to testify, which saves time and cost during probate.
- two adult witnesses required at signing
- Notarization is optional in Pennsylvania but recommended to create a self-proving affidavit that simplifies probate
- Pennsylvania does not accept holographic (handwritten) wills
- Witnesses should be disinterested adults
- Self-proving affidavit recommended for faster probate
What Pennsylvania probate looks like
When a Pennsylvania resident dies with a will, the executor files it in the probate court of the county where the decedent lived. The court validates the will, supervises the executor, and oversees distribution. Small estates may qualify for a simplified or affidavit-based process; larger or contested estates can take 6–18 months.
A living trust is the most common way Pennsylvania families bypass probate for major assets. VoiceWill™ can draft a coordinated will and revocable trust together so nothing is missed.
Healthcare directive and power of attorney in Pennsylvania
A will only takes effect at death. Two other documents protect you while alive: a Pennsylvania advance healthcare directive (also called a living will or healthcare proxy) names who makes medical decisions if you cannot, and a Pennsylvania durable power of attorney names who manages your finances during incapacity. Most Pennsylvania estate plans need all three.
Choosing executors and guardians in Pennsylvania
Your executor must be an adult Pennsylvania resident or, for non-residents, generally a close relative — confirm your county's rules. Name at least one alternate. If you have minor children, your will is the place to nominate a guardian; Pennsylvania courts give strong weight to a parent's nomination but make the final call based on the child's best interests.
Frequently asked questions about Pennsylvania will requirements
How many witnesses does a will need in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires two adult witnesses who are of legal age, mentally competent, and generally not beneficiaries of the will.
Is notarization required for a Pennsylvania will?
No — Pennsylvania does not require notarization, but a notarized self-proving affidavit is strongly recommended to speed probate.
Are handwritten (holographic) wills accepted in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania does not recognize holographic wills. A will must be in writing and properly witnessed under state law.
Can I make my Pennsylvania will online?
Yes. VoiceWill™ guides you through a voice conversation, prepares a Pennsylvania-compliant draft, and explains exactly how to sign and witness it under Pennsylvania law.
Does a Pennsylvania will avoid probate?
No. A will still goes through Pennsylvania probate. To avoid probate, Pennsylvania residents typically pair the will with a revocable living trust.
Start your Pennsylvania will by voice in under an hour.
Start your VoiceWill™ →