Can teenagers write a will?
When we think of writing a will, we often imagine older adults preparing for the inevitable. But in today’s world, where teenagers can enlist in the military at 17, get married, have kids, and even make millions on social media before they’re old enough to vote, the question arises: Can teenagers protect their families legacy by writing a will?
Considering some of these young (pre?) Adults are making serious life decisions that shape their future. It would only be fair if they are legally permitted to protect that future for them and their families with a state specific will. Whether it’s protecting their hard-earned assets or simply having a say in their legacy, more young people are asking about estate planning. One unknown fact is that the vast majority of Americans regardless of age never actually get around to writing their will. But with more control over one’s legacy than ever before, knowing when and how to start is key. So, can teenagers really create a will, and what are the legal boundaries? Let’s find out.
Legal age requirement for creating a will
In today’s day and age of the internet one does not need an attorney to create a will, in fact this process is tried and tested through time and at wills.com we have built a toolset that enables anyone to build a state specific legal will as per your states legal requirements and specific wishes. Because making a will does not have to be difficult or expensive. While estate planning is typically done by adults, the need to create a will can arise at any age and wills.com makes it easy, affordable and quick.
Whether due to owning assets, having specific wishes, or facing unique circumstances, teenagers may want to explore how they can legally document their intentions. This article will delve into the legal requirements, potential challenges, and the importance of empowering teenagers with knowledge about estate planning. At the bottom of this article we have gone and put together a comprehensive master table specifying exactly what the legalities are in each state so if you are curious scroll down to the table and find the information you’re looking for there.
The lowest age requirement for creating a will.
If you’re a minor and questioning whether creating a will makes sense for you, it might be best to consult a local estate planning attorney. While laws often require individuals to be at least 18 to write a will, there are some interesting cases where courts have upheld wills created under exceptional circumstances. For example, holographic wills—handwritten, often unwitnessed documents—are sometimes accepted by courts. In cases like Berger v. Estate of Berger, the will was upheld because the court found strong evidence of intent, even though it didn’t meet all formal requirements. In Texas, minors who are married or in the military are legally allowed to write wills that will be honored, according to the Texas Estates Code. In other instances, courts have made rulings that focus on the clear intent of the testator. For example, the Marley v. Rawlings case, where a mistake in signing was corrected, shows that the court’s priority was making sure the will reflected the testator’s wishes. These examples show that even if you’re not yet 18, there may still be valid reasons to prepare a will, and legal guidance can ensure it’s done correctly.
The legal age for writing a will varies significantly depending on where you live. Some states, like Georgia, allow individuals as young as 14 to create a will, while others require you to be 18 or older. If you’re curious about the specific laws in your state, we’ve compiled a detailed table that breaks down the minimum age requirements across the country. Whether you’re exploring options through online will services or planning to consult with an attorney, this guide will help you navigate the legal landscape of will creation and ensure your estate planning aligns with state laws. Scroll down to find out when and how you can legally secure your legacy.
Master table - Minimum Age Requirements for Creating a Will in Every State | Online Wills, Last Will & Testament Guide.
Find the minimum age requirements for writing a will in all U.S. states. This comprehensive guide helps you understand when you can legally create a will, along with tips on using online will templates, finding a will attorney, and making a simple will.