Important: This article provides general educational information about updating or changing a will. It is not legal advice. Will requirements vary by state, so verify the current rules where you live.
How to Update or Change Your Will
People may need to update a will after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, a death in the family, a significant change in assets, or a move to another state. The correct method depends on the existing will and the law that applies.
When Should You Update Your Will?
Marriage or Divorce
Marriage or divorce can affect estate-planning documents and beneficiary arrangements. Review the will and related accounts after a change in marital status.
Birth or Adoption of a Child
A new child can make it important to review beneficiary provisions and any nomination of a guardian for minor children.
Death of a Beneficiary or Executor
If a named beneficiary or executor dies, review the document and consider whether an alternate should be named.
Major Financial Changes
The purchase or sale of real estate, a business, inheritance, retirement assets, or other significant changes can justify reviewing an estate plan.
Ways to Change a Will
Create a Codicil
A codicil is an amendment to an existing will. It generally must satisfy applicable execution requirements. A codicil can be useful for limited changes, but multiple amendments can make an estate plan harder to interpret.
Create a New Will
For substantial changes, replacing the old will with a new document may be clearer. The new will should be executed according to the applicable state requirements and should address revocation of earlier wills as appropriate.
How to Change Your Will Step by Step
- Review your current will and related estate-planning documents.
- Identify the provisions that need to change.
- Check the current requirements in the state whose law applies.
- Choose whether a codicil or a new will is appropriate.
- Follow the required signing and witnessing formalities.
- Store the executed original safely.
- Tell the appropriate person where the original can be found.
- Review beneficiary designations and other transfer arrangements for consistency.
Can You Change a Will Yourself?
In many jurisdictions, a person can prepare and execute their own will or amendment if the legal requirements are satisfied. However, simply crossing out words, adding handwritten changes, or attaching an informal note may not produce a valid amendment.
What Happens to the Old Will?
When a new will validly replaces an earlier will, the earlier document may be revoked according to the new document and applicable law. Keep records organized so the person administering the estate can identify the most recent valid document.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Making informal handwritten changes without checking state requirements.
- Failing to sign or witness the new document correctly.
- Leaving beneficiary designations inconsistent with the new plan.
- Destroying the original without understanding the legal effect.
- Failing to update the plan after major life or financial changes.
When Professional Legal Advice May Help
Professional advice can be particularly useful when an estate includes substantial assets, a business, a blended family, property in multiple states, special-needs planning, or potential disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my will without making a new one?
Some changes can be made through a codicil, but the requirements vary by state. For significant changes, a new will may be considered.
Can I edit my will by hand?
Do not assume that handwritten edits are valid. Some states recognize certain handwritten wills or amendments while others have different requirements.
How often should I review my will?
There is no universal review interval. A review after major life, family, financial, or residence changes is generally sensible.
Related Guides
- How to Make a Will Without a Lawyer
- Is a Handwritten (Holographic) Will Valid?
- Will vs. Living Trust: Which Do You Need?
Sources
Verify current will-amendment requirements using the applicable state statutes and official probate court resources.
Last reviewed: October 2, 2026
Next review due: October 2, 2027
Legal disclaimer: This content is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and change.