Your will-signing checklist

Before anyone signs

• I have read the final will and checked the names and wishes.
• I have the whole final document, with no pages from an old draft.
• Both witnesses are adults and can see and understand the signing.
• Neither witness receives a gift in the will.
• Neither witness is married to, or the civil partner of, anyone receiving a gift.
• I have read the signing instructions and asked about anything unclear.

If there are concerns about understanding or pressure, stop and seek advice. Get help with the correct process if you cannot sign or see.

Sign in this order

1. You sign. Both witnesses must be present together, with a clear view of you signing.
2. The first witness signs. You must be able to see them sign the same document.
3. The second witness signs. You must also see them sign that same document.

Keeping all three people together throughout is a simple practical approach. The witnesses do not legally have to sign at the same time as each other.

Do not use a video call or electronic signature as a shortcut. Read the legal requirements if the usual process is difficult.

Check and store the original

• I have checked the signatures, date and requested witness details.
• I have chosen a safe place for the signed original.
• My executor knows where it is and how to get it.

Do not write changes on the signed will. Ask about a new will or a codicil. A codicil is a separate document that changes a will. It must be signed and witnessed in the same way as a will.

Print a copy to keep beside you

You can print this page or download the one-page signing checklist (PDF). All the essential steps are also written above.

The tick boxes are only a reading aid. They do not create, sign or check a will. This page has no fields for your private details.