How to Sign a Will Correctly in England and Wales

Why signing matters

A will is only legally valid if it is signed and witnessed correctly. Getting this wrong, even with a well-drafted will, can mean it has no legal effect at all.

The legal requirements

Under the Wills Act 1837, a valid will must:

1. Be in writing (printed paper, not electronic)
2. Be signed by the testator (the person making the will)
3. Be signed in the presence of two witnesses
4. Have both witnesses sign in the presence of the testator
5. Both witnesses must be present at the same time

Who can be a witness?

• Must be aged 18 or over
• Must have mental capacity
• Must not be a beneficiary (or the spouse/civil partner of a beneficiary) — if they are, they lose their gift
• Should not be the executor (permitted but not recommended)

Good choices: a neighbour, colleague, friend, or anyone who is not named in the will.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Signing before the witnesses are present
• Witnesses signing in separate rooms or at different times
• Using correction fluid or crossing out after signing
• Witnesses who are also beneficiaries

After signing

Store the original will safely. Tell your executor where it is. Consider registering it with the National Will Register (Certainty).