CA · Will requirements

California will requirements

Witness requirements

Two witnesses must be present at the same time to witness testator signing or acknowledgment

Holographic (handwritten) wills

Holographic wills are valid in California. A holographic will must be entirely in the testator’s own handwriting and signed. No witnesses are required for a holographic will.

Self-proving affidavit (recommended)

California allows wills to be made self-proving by having a notary acknowledge the signatures. A self-proving will can be admitted to probate without requiring witness testimony — saving your executor significant time and hassle.

Community property

California is a community property state. Your spouse generally has a right to half of all property acquired during the marriage.

Important notes

• Community property state

Official sources

• California Probate Code Division 6 - Wills and Intestate Succession ↗
• California Courts - Probate ↗