Vermont Last Will and Testament

Home / Last Will and Testament Templates / Vermont Last Will and Testament

Creating a last will and testament is essential for managing your assets. This document ensures that your wishes are followed after your death. According to Title 14, Section 1 of the Vermont Statutes, individuals must be 18 years of age or older (or emancipated) to create a will. A Vermont last will and testament must only be made by a person of sound mind.

There are three main things to consider when writing your will: assets, guardianship, and executorship.

  • Distribute Your Assets

Start by making a list of your assets that includes any property. Determine who you would like to inherit your assets after your death.

  • Appoint a Guardian

If you have children, you will need to appoint a guardian. This appointment names the person you want to care for your children if they are minors when you die.

  • Designate an Executor

Choose an executor to carry out your wishes. The executor is responsible for ensuring that all of the terms in your will are followed. Your executor will distribute your assets. They will also take care of any taxes or debt associated with your estate.

Vermont Last Will and Testament Template

Signing Requirements

Title 14, Section 5 of the Vermont Statutes explains that a will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. These two individuals must also sign the last will and testament form in front of you and each other.

How to Change a Will in Vermont

You can change your will by revoking your old one. This is done either by destroying the old will or by stating in your new will that you are revoking any old wills.

You can change your will at any time and as often as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

The will must have been created by someone of sound mind who is either 18 years or older or emancipated by court order. In addition, the will needs to have been signed before two witnesses who also signed in front of the testator and each other.

The average rate for a lawyer handling wills and estates in Vermont is $226 per hour. You also have the option of making a free last will and testament in Vermont.

Having your will notarized is not necessary to make it legal. You can go with your witnesses to a notary to make your will self-proving. This involves signing an affidavit and can help speed up the probate process.

A will is valid so long as it follows the signing requirements. You can choose to write your own will, use a last will and testament template, or work with a lawyer to create your will.

Handwritten wills, while valid, are not recommended since unclear handwriting can create challenges with reading the will. A Vermont last will and testament should be to be clearly legible.