Does a will have to be certified?

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It doesn't matter whether you have a lot or little to bequeath. A will is a sensible way of regulating your affairs. There are several forms in which wills are made. They are certified, drawn up in front of the notary or written by hand. Decide which shape is enough for you.

A simple signature is enough for the will.
A simple signature is enough for the will.

What you need:

  • paper
  • pen
  • ink pen

Certified or not - that must be in a will

  • A testament is a declaration with which you regulate the distribution of your property after your death. You can also choose how you want to be buried. This unilateral declaration of intent does not have to be certified as long as you observe the formal requirements for a handwritten will.
  • It is important that you clearly write down what it is about. Your will must be recognizable. The best way to achieve this is to refer to your will as such. It is not a mandatory requirement to call your last will that way, but it will make it easier to identify it later as a declaration from the testator.
  • Each person in the will must be easy to identify. To do this, state your name in the will and also the full names and addresses of the heirs you have named. So your heirs are easy to find even after many years.
  • A handwritten will with signature, date and clear instructions is just as valid as one that is notarized. The reasons why such a will is later invalid are more due to the content. So if you want to make very complicated regulations, a professional draft by a lawyer is recommended or you can have it done by a notary right away.

This is how matters become binding by will

  1. Write your will with an indelible writing implement. Pencils, chalk or similar easy-to-change pens are ruled out. Choose a ballpoint pen or a fountain pen.
    2. Wills without a notary - you should pay attention to this

    It is a widespread belief that you have to submit your will to the notary ...

  2. Start with the heading so everyone will immediately know what this statement is about. The term "testament" does not have to be above it, "last will" and similarly clear designations are sufficient.
  3. Write an introductory sentence in which you state your name, your date of birth and your address. So it is clear who the author of this will is.
  4. Keep the rules in your will clear and simple. You don't have to go into every tiny detail. The more complicated you get, the more likely your will is to be invalid. This is then due to legally unenforceable regulations or sheer incomprehensibility that can no longer even be got out of the way through interpretation.
  5. Every person you list in your will must be identifiable many years later. "The nice saleswoman in the supermarket" is a phrase that is not helpful. So state your name, preferably a date of birth and an address.
  6. Put a date on your will and sign it. Of course, this signature can also be certified. If you already anticipate disputes among the future heirs, it is at least worth considering, because in a certified form there are no doubts about the authenticity of your signature.

However, it does not have to be certified, you can keep it as it is so that everything can be arranged according to your wishes later.

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