Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes When Making an Online Will

 Creating a will is one of the most important steps in securing your family’s future. With the convenience of an online will maker, more people are choosing to make a will online instead of visiting an attorney. However, without proper guidance, mistakes can happen-leading to legal disputes or an invalid will.

At WillAndTrustMaker, we help you avoid these pitfalls. In this guide, we’ll discuss the 5 most common mistakes when making an online will and how to prevent them.

1. Not Following State-Specific Legal Requirements

One of the biggest mistakes people make when they make a will online is assuming that a generic template will work in every state. Each state has different laws regarding:

• Witness requirements (some states require two, others require notarization)

• Handwritten (holographic) wills (accepted in some states, invalid in others)

• Digital signatures (not all states recognize electronic wills)

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Use an online will maker that customizes documents based on your state.

• Check if your state requires notarization or additional witnesses.

• Consult an estate attorney if you have complex assets.

2. Failing to Update Your Will After Major Life Changes

A will isn’t a "set it and forget it" document. Many people make a will online but forget to update it after:

• Marriage or divorce

• Birth or adoption of a child

• Acquisition of significant assets (property, investments)

• Death of a beneficiary

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Review your will every 3–5 years or after major life events.

• Use an online will maker that allows easy updates.

• Keep a digital and physical copy of the latest version.

3. Choosing the Wrong Executor or Guardian

Your executor (the person who manages your estate) and guardian (if you have minor children) play crucial roles. Common mistakes include:

• Naming someone who is unwilling or unable to serve

• Not appointing a backup executor

• Choosing a guardian without discussing it with them first

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Discuss responsibilities with your chosen executor/guardian beforehand.

• Select a backup in case your first choice is unavailable.

• Ensure they are trustworthy and financially responsible.

4. Leaving Out Important Assets or Debts

When you make a will online, it’s easy to overlook:

• Digital assets (crypto, social media accounts)

• Personal items with sentimental value

• Debts that could impact inheritance

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Make a complete list of all assets (bank accounts, property, investments).

• Include digital assets and instructions for accessing them.

• Specify how debts should be handled (e.g., paid from the estate).

5. Not Storing or Sharing Your Will Properly

Even a perfectly drafted will is useless if no one can find it. Common storage mistakes:

• Keeping it in a safe deposit box (hard to access after death)

• Not informing the executor of its location

• Forgetting to store a digital backup

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Store a physical copy in a fireproof safe at home.

• Share a digital copy with your executor or attorney.

• Use a secure online will maker platform that stores documents safely.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Online Will the Right Way

Using an online will maker is a smart, cost-effective way to create a legally binding will-but only if done correctly. By avoiding these 5 common mistakes, you can ensure your final wishes are honored without legal complications.

At WillAndTrustMaker, we provide a state-specific, lawyer-approved platform to help you make a will online with confidence. Start your will today and protect your family’s future!