Witnesses are often a key component of making your documents legally effective. You must follow the state-specific instructions provided on the first page of each document.
A great place to find witnesses is wherever you go to notarize your documents (UPS Store is common.) Some state documents don't require a notary. In this case, you can ask a neighbor, coworker, or friends who aren't in your Estate Plan to act as your witnesses.
These people usually should not be a witness:
- Anybody named in your Estate Plan - Trustees, Executors, Guardians, Gift recipients, etc
- Immediate family members
- Minors
In some states, there may be unintended consequences of having a Will / Trust witnessed by a family member or someone named in the documents. This could jeopardize the ability of any witness to receive any gifts or inheritance from your Estate.
If you're having trouble finding witnesses, feel free to check out our partner, Mobile Notary Zone! For an additional fee, Mobile Notary Zone is able to notarize your documents and provide witnesses at signing. Schedule an appointment here!
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