Is a holographic will legal in North Carolina?

There are a variety of ways for you to create your will. However, you do it, the most important thing is for you to ensure that it is legal.

One option you may consider is a handwritten or holographic will. This type of document may not work in all situations because there are important aspects that you must follow to ensure its validity.

Main requirement

The primary requirement for a holographic will is you must hand-write it out. You cannot type it. You cannot have someone else write it. You must write the whole document completely in your own handwriting. While the law does allow for certain aspects to appear in print, to avoid the potential for any issues, you probably want to write the whole thing. You might end up with issues if you fill in a form or something of that nature where some parts come preprinted.

Signature

For your holographic will to be valid, you also need to sign your name on the document.

No other requirements

Holographic wills are fairly simple. You do not need to have witnesses to the document. You do not have to get a notary to stamp it. As long as it is written in your own handwriting, it passes the requirements of the state.

Keep in mind that you should be careful with this type of will as it is easy for someone to contest and say it is not in your handwriting or otherwise object to the contents. You should make sure your family is aware of the will and clarify it is your wish for them to follow it.