Introductory Clause
Identify the testator, domicile, and statement of intent to create a will, including an explicit revocation of prior wills.
Accurate instructions reduce the risk of probate disputes, unintended intestacy, and delays. Clear execution steps help ensure the will meets statutory formalities so the testator’s intent is enforceable and estate administration proceeds efficiently.
Executors, individuals preparing a will, attorneys, and fiduciaries reference these instructions to confirm formalities and avoid common errors.
Use these instructions as a procedural checklist; consult Pennsylvania counsel for complex estates, tax planning, or unusual asset transfers.
Identify the testator, domicile, and statement of intent to create a will, including an explicit revocation of prior wills.
Name an executor and alternates, outline powers and bond waiver requests, and provide contact details for smooth estate administration.
List cash gifts, personal property, and real estate with clear identifiers; include contingent beneficiaries for each bequest.
State who receives the remainder of the estate after debts, taxes, and specific bequests are satisfied to avoid partial intestacy.
If minor children are involved, appoint guardians and alternates with caretaking instructions where appropriate and legally permissible.
Include testator signature, printed names, witness signatures, addresses, and dates; consider a self-proving affidavit for probate efficiency.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature Type | Visible signature field; audit trail enabled |
| Authentication | Email link or SMS code for signer verification |
| Witness Capture | Designate witness signature fields in order |
| Notary | Add remote notary step if permitted |
Electronic workflows can capture signatures, timestamps, and signer metadata but must align with Pennsylvania law and federal e-signature rules.
Verify that chosen digital steps satisfy witness, notary, and local court preferences before relying on electronic execution for testamentary documents.
File the will with the local probate or Orphans' Court soon after death
Federal Form 706 due nine months after death (IRS deadline)
Promptly inventory assets and notify known creditors
Creditors typically have months to present claims per state rules
Income tax returns follow normal IRS deadlines for the decedent and estate
Complete and sign the will with required witnesses and dates.
Store the original in a secure location and give trusted persons location details.
Upon death, file the will with the county probate or Orphans' Court clerk.
Close the estate after inventory, creditor resolution, taxes, and distributions.
Tim Martin streamlined estate-related documents for property transfers
John Butler used integrated signing in clinical and administrative workflows
| 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 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |