Online estate planning only works if documents match your state’s legal execution requirements. Witnessing, notarization, and wording rules vary. Always follow your state-specific instructions exactly.
Online tools are usually faster and cheaper for straightforward situations. Attorneys are often better for complex tax planning, blended families, business structures, or high-conflict scenarios.
Many US consumers choose online will tools because they reduce friction and cost while still creating structured planning documents. Review your documents after major life changes and when moving states.
Tools mentioned in this article
These platforms are commonly used for online estate planning workflows. Always verify state-specific execution requirements before signing.
Type: Estate planning platform
Best for: state-specific wills and trusts
Pricing: package-based
Type: Online legal document service
Best for: broad consumer legal docs including estate forms
Pricing: plan/package based
Type: Document + legal plan platform
Best for: recurring legal documents and updates
Pricing: subscription model
Type: DIY estate planning software
Best for: users comfortable with software-guided drafting
Pricing: one-time/edition based
Type: Free will-drafting workflow
Best for: simple estate planning starting point
Pricing: free
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Conclusion
The safest DIY approach: choose a reputable state-specific tool, execute correctly, and update documents when life changes.
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