Online Will Software

A simple will is better than no will.

Trust & Will

$199 will / $499 trust

Senior-friendly UI. Includes power of attorney + healthcare directive. Best support.

Best overall.

LegalZoom

$99-249 will / $279 trust

Biggest brand. Optional attorney consultation ($79).

Best name recognition.

FreeWill.com

FREE will

Truly free. Funded by charities. Decent quality. Good for simple estates.

Best free.

NoLo Press / Quicken WillMaker

$100-180 software

Buy software, fill out at home. Most thorough for DIYers.

Best DIY thorough.

A real estate-planning attorney

$500-2,500

Custom drafted. Catches state-specific issues. Worth it for $500K+ estates or trusts.

Best for complex.

DIY OK if...

Estate under $500,000.
Married, simple — leave everything to spouse, then kids.
No business ownership.
No special-needs heirs.
No second marriage with kids from prior marriage.
Live in 1 state, no out-of-state property.

Hire an attorney if...

$1M+ estate, or $500K + complex situation.
Want a trust (more complex than will).
Multiple marriages / step-children.
Special-needs heirs (need a special-needs trust).
Own a business.
Out-of-state property (multiple probates).
Charitable giving plans.
Concerns about heirs disputing.

What ALL wills must include

Full legal name of testator (you).
Statement that this is your "last will and testament".
Executor name (who handles your affairs).
List of beneficiaries.
How assets are split.
Guardianship for any minor children.
Signed by you AND 2 witnesses (3 in some states).
Notarized in most states.

Beyond the will — full estate kit

Durable Power of Attorney — someone can manage your money if you can't.
Healthcare Power of Attorney — someone can make medical decisions.
Living Will / Advance Directive — your wishes if incapacitated.
HIPAA release — gives family access to medical info.
Beneficiary forms — for IRA, 401(k), life insurance — these OVERRIDE the will. Update them yearly.
Digital assets list — passwords, accounts (see /tools/digital-legacy-planner).

Don't put off

If you die without a will, your state writes one for you — and it's rarely what you wanted. Probate without a will costs more, takes longer, and may give your assets to people you wouldn't choose. A simple FreeWill.com document beats nothing.