Will Reference
Cite the original will by date and title so the codicil is clearly linked to that document and recognized by the probate court.
A codicil lets the testator make narrow changes—such as updating beneficiaries, executors, or gifts—without redrafting the entire will. It preserves the original testamentary framework while making focused revisions that reduce drafting time and maintain continuity for probate.
The codicil is used by company officers, individual testators with corporate interests, and estate counsel to amend an existing will tied to corporate ownership or succession.
The individual whose will is amended; must have testamentary capacity at signing and execute the codicil according to state formalities to ensure probate acceptance.
A neutral adult who watches the testator sign and signs the codicil; witness requirements vary by state and can affect validity during probate proceedings.
Cite the original will by date and title so the codicil is clearly linked to that document and recognized by the probate court.
Specify verbatim what is added, removed, or changed; avoid vague language to reduce the risk of contested interpretation.
State the date the codicil is executed; this establishes timing relative to other testamentary instruments and potential revocations.
Include a clear statement by the testator confirming capacity and intent to amend the will at the time of signing.
Provide lines for witness names, addresses, signatures, and dates as required by state law to meet attestation rules.
When used, include a notarial block or self-proving affidavit language to simplify probate; requirements depend on local statute.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Set testator first, then witnesses |
| Authentication | Use email + SMS code for signer verification |
| Attachment Rules | Require uploaded ID for the testator |
| Audit Trail | Enable IP, timestamp, and certificate capture |
Use an eSignature workflow that supports audit trails, signer authentication, and secure storage; some jurisdictions limit electronic use for testamentary instruments.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes (plan dependent) | Yes (plan dependent) | Yes (plan dependent) | Limited |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Date the document draft and record version control
Sign with witnesses and notary on the execution date
Execute if desired to simplify probate admission
Inform the named executor of the codicil and location
Store original with the will in a secure location
Prepare amendment text and obtain legal review
Complete signing with required witnesses and notary
Store original safely and update executor records
Submit codicil with original will if probate is opened
The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team; more importantly, it is just as easy for our customers.
I can process and execute all of these documents online with 100% compliance and built-in security.