Codicil
Use LawDepot's Codicil to make simple changes to your Last Will and Testament
  • Easily add, change or delete existing clauses.
  • Each state is extensively researched to ensure your Codicil is properly executed.
  • Self-proving affidavit satisfies court requirements for witnesses where allowed.
Get Started:
  • Complete the Codicil form below.
  • Click on "View Results" at the bottom to preview your Codicil.
 
When do I need a Codicil?
  • You get married (a change in marital status may void your Will).
  • You are unmarried, but have a new partner.
  • The amount of money and property you own significantly changes.
  • You move to another state (not all states recognize out-of-state Wills).
  • Your executor or a significant beneficiary in your Will dies.
  • There is a birth or adoption of a child in your family.
  • You change your mind about the provisions in your Will.
We regularly maintain this contract. Last Modified: June 2009
Codicil Details

Should I use a Codicil or should I rewrite my Last Will?

- If you need to make complex changes to your Last Will; or

- If your Last Will already has one or more codicils attached;

then you should WRITE A NEW WILL.

Your Information


Enter the name and personal information of the person the Codicil is for.
Use your full legal name. (e.g. Samuel William Smith.)

Signing Location


The signing location is where the Codicil will be executed (signed).
(Required)
The requirements for executing a Codicil can be slightly different in each jurisdiction. The help provided for the questions that follow will be based on the jurisdiction that you select for the Signing Location.

You must select a state to continue.

Last Will


To avoid confusion you need to identify which Last Will this Codicil is intended to amend.
Open the calendar popup.

Amendments

Amendment


If the clauses in your Last Will are numbered, then number your new clause so that your Last Will and Codicil will be read in the correct sequence.

Example: (Add a new gift or beneficiary)
12) I bequeath the sum of $25,000 to my nephew John Thomas Lee, of Arlington, Texas, to be used for his sole use and enjoyment.

Codicil Execution Date


*** Please select a state in the Signing Location section. ***

________________________________________________________________

BETTER TO BE SAFE!


Avoid the risk of having your intentions changed or even invalidated.


Select only witnesses who are NOT RECEIVING A GIFT under your Will. A witness should also not be the spouse of someone receiving a gift under your Will.


________________________________________________________________

Additional Help

1. Who may make a Last Will?
*** Please select a state in the Signing Location section. ***

2. Who must sign my Codicil to Last Will?

*** Please select a state in the Signing Location section. ***



Signing 'in the presence of' another means the other parties actually watch the signing. The Testator and the witnesses should initial the bottom right hand corner of each page of the Codicil or Last Will (except the last page which is signed by everyone). Witnesses should NOT be individuals who will be receiving gifts in the Will or the spouses of individuals receiving gifts in the Will.

3. What is a self-proving Will?
Normally a witness will be required to testify in probate court that the Last Will or Codicil was executed properly. Alternatively, this requirement may be satisfied by having each witness swear an oath and sign an affidavit in front of a notary. This removes the requirement of having one of your witnesses go to court to verify proper execution. If available in your state, the required form will be included with your Codicil to Last Will.

Remember:

Read and review your Last Will and all Codicils (including this one) carefully.

If your Last Will appears confusing then a judge may interpret your Last Will in a way that you did not intend. Do not take that risk! Ensure that your intentions are clear and will not be misunderstood.

If you think your Codicil might be misunderstood then WRITE A NEW WILL!