Best software to write your own will?

[simplertimes]

I want to put together a basic will and would like to use software to do it.  We don't have much right now, but we do have three kids and I want to make sure they would be left to the right person.

[Kwill]

I want to put together a basic will and would like to use software to do it.  We don't have much right now, but we do have three kids and I want to make sure they would be left to the right person.

This is a good question. I'm curious about the answer.

[TomTX]

I want to put together a basic will and would like to use software to do it.  We don't have much right now, but we do have three kids and I want to make sure they would be left to the right person.

This is a good question. I'm curious about the answer.

You don't need "software" - you need a basic Word document that you can edit (specific to your state). I got mine through work, was really easy.

[BudgetSlasher]

I want to put together a basic will and would like to use software to do it.  We don't have much right now, but we do have three kids and I want to make sure they would be left to the right person.

This is a good question. I'm curious about the answer.

You don't need "software" - you need a basic Word document that you can edit (specific to your state). I got mine through work, was really easy.

Heck some states even provide you a "basic" will . . . Maine has one in statute.

http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/18-A/title18-Asec2-514.html

[FIRE me]

I want to put together a basic will and would like to use software to do it.  We don't have much right now, but we do have three kids and I want to make sure they would be left to the right person.

The law varies from State to State.

Where I live, you can't print and sign a Will. It won't be valid. If you want to write your own will you have to write the entire will by your own hand, pen and paper. Or you need an attorney, or a notary and several witnesses.

[simplertimes]

Am I missing something here?  On reddit's frugal section I asked this question because I wanted to avoid paying an attorney, and most people said I should just pay the attorney while one or two suggested a software program.  I guess programs exist to help write wills similar to turbotax for taxes.

I will look into my state templates for wills and how to ensure the will is legal and binding, but I'm interested to know if others have heard of or used software programs as well.

Thanks!

[lbmustache]

Am I missing something here?  On reddit's frugal section I asked this question because I wanted to avoid paying an attorney, and most people said I should just pay the attorney while one or two suggested a software program.  I guess programs exist to help write wills similar to turbotax for taxes.

I will look into my state templates for wills and how to ensure the will is legal and binding, but I'm interested to know if others have heard of or used software programs as well.

Thanks!

I know someone at work who used LegalZoom for his will and is very happy with it/the service. On the other hand, I also know someone who is a probate/estate attorney who would strongly recommend using an attorney, having seen the whole spectrum of outcomes relating to wills.

[Stairway to Stache]

Use an attorney. There are sometimes in life where going the cheap route does not pay off, this is one of them. You SHOULD ask how much they charge and you SHOULD ask or interview at least 3 -5 in your local area so you know what you are paying for and make sure it is someone you are comfortable working with. For a simple will, and no living trust or other services you are looking at only a few hundred bucks approx in cost.

[tarheeldan]

I used willing.com