Alaska Last Will and Testament

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When it comes to an Alaska last will and testament, the state’s probate courts oversee the division of property and estates. The court handles estate and property divisions under the guidelines set forth by the testator, or the person who made the will.

An Alaska will describes what will happen to an individual’s property after death. In Alaska, the creator of a last will and testament must be someone 18 years or older. The testator must be of sound mind and submit the document in writing. Alaska does not recognize or accept oral wills.

An Alaska last will and testament template may be used. However, it is not required. If changes are needed to the last will and testament form, Alaska requires an amendment – called a codicil – to be included and signed in the same manner as the initial will.

Alaska Last Will and Testament Template

Requirements for a Will to be valid in Alaska

For a will to be valid in Alaska, the testator must follow specific guidelines:

  • Divide the desired property between inheritors
  • Choose an executor
  • Choose a guardian if children are present and underage
  • Choose a manager for your children’s property
  • Sign the will in front of at least two witnesses
  • Two witnesses sign the will in the presence of the testator

An Alaskan will is considered valid when these requirements are met.

Notarized Will in Alaska

Alaska does not require a notary’s signature for the will to be valid. However, a notary’s signature makes the will considered self-proved. A self-proved will need not be proved by the probate court when the time comes. A self-proved will can be admitted to the court without witness testimony.

Cost to Create a Will in Alaska

While a free last will and testament in Alaska might be untenable, a simple Alaska will template allows the process to move forward at a reasonable price. Some attorneys charge hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on the complexity of the content.

A testator can create their own will in Alaska. One can typically find simple resources to guide them in the process. If all state requirements are followed, the court must accept the will as legal and valid. 

FAQs

Alaska requires two generally competent witnesses who may testify in court concerning what they saw in signing the will. The witness may be related to the testator and may be the recipient of gifts in the will.

In Alaska, a testator may write their own will. The will must be signed by the testator and two witnesses to be considered.

Wills should be filed with the appropriate judicial district court.

If all legal requirements noted above are met, Alaska does not prohibit the testator from creating a handwritten will. Called a holographic will, the will need not be entirely in the testator’s handwriting for it to be considered legal and valid.

If an individual passes away without a will, Alaska intestacy laws require that property be distributed to closest relatives, such as spouses and children.

Following an individual’s death, their will is no longer confidential in Alaska.