Are online wills legally valid?
Yes, online wills are legally valid in all 50 states if you follow your state's signing requirements (typically 2 witnesses and/or notarization). Services like Will Agent, Trust & Will, and LegalZoom create state-specific wills drafted by licensed attorneys.
How much does an online will cost?
Online wills range from FREE (FreeWill, Fabric) to $699 (Will Agent Trust Bundle with RON). Will Agent offers 3 tiers: Essential ($199), Complete ($449), and Trust Bundle ($699). Most services cost $69-199 for a basic will. This is 90% cheaper than hiring an attorney ($1,500-3,000).
What's the best online will service?
Will Agent (92/100) ranks #1 for its visual WillBoard interface and integrated RON. However, the "best" depends on your needs: Trust & Will (87/100) is best for nationwide coverage, Willing (80/100) is best budget option at $69, and FreeWill (85/100) is best free service.
Do I need a lawyer or can I use an online service?
Most people (90%) can use online services for straightforward estates under $5M. Hire an attorney if you have: estate over $5M (tax planning), special needs child (SNT required), blended family complexities, or business succession needs.
How long does it take to create an online will?
Completion time ranges from 15 minutes (Will Agent, Willing) to 40 minutes (LegalZoom). Average is 20 minutes. This includes answering questions about beneficiaries, assets, executor, and guardian (if applicable).
Can I update my will after creating it?
Yes. Update pricing varies: Will Agent charges $49/update for subscribers ($99/year vault) or $148 without subscription, Trust & Will charges $19/year (best subscription value), Willing requires buying new will for $69, and LegalZoom charges $49/year.
Do online wills include notarization?
Only Will Agent (all tiers from $199) includes integrated Remote Online Notarization (RON) + 2 witnesses. Other services require you to arrange notarization separately (costs $25-149 via NotaryCam, Notarize, or local UPS Store).
What's included in an online will package?
Most services include: Last Will & Testament, Living Will (healthcare directive), and Power of Attorney (financial decisions). Premium services like Trust & Will also include HIPAA authorization. Will Agent includes RON + witnesses. Nolo includes 35+ documents.
