What is a holographic will?

A holographic will is a will written in the handwriting of the person writing it, also known as the testator. In Wisconsin, a holographic will is considered to be valid if it meets certain requirements. For a holographic will to be legally valid, it must be signed by the testator and contain instructions for the distribution of their estate. The will must be written either entirely in the testator’s handwriting or, if written on a typewriter or computer, it must be signed by the testator. In Wisconsin, a typed holographic will must contain the testator’s signature and a statement of intent at the end. The testator must also have been at least 18 years of age and of sound mind when the will was written. Additionally, the will must be dated and signed on the same day as the date of drafting. It also cannot contain any language providing for the revocation or alteration of the will. The Wisconsin probate court may accept a holographic will if it meets all the requirements and is not found to be questionable or fraudulent. Once the holographic will is accepted by the court, the assets of the estate are distributed according to the testator’s wishes. If the court finds that the holographic will does not meet the requirements, it will be declared invalid and the testator’s estate will be distributed according to Wisconsin’s laws of intestacy.

Related FAQs

What is probate and how does it work?
Can I make gifts in a will?
What is a death tax?
How long does probate take?
What is a durable power of attorney?
What are the estate planning documents I should have?
Are there limits on how much I can leave in a will?
What is a living will?
How are payments distributed through probate?
What is a pour-over trust?

What is a holographic will?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts