How to Get a Living Will and Last Will & Testament Forms

Not having a living will or a last will and testament is a serious mistake. Though many people would rather not think about planning for the end of their lives, a written, legal document can make difficult decisions for family and survivors much easier when that inevitable time does come. While a last will and testament simply explains how you want your assets managed after you pass away, a living will specifically states your wishes regarding the use of life support if you are unable to communicate your wishes while in a coma or other medical state. The living will also dictates whether you desire to be an organ donor or have an autopsy.

Access the Internet for a reputable website for legal forms that you can download and print at home, or order printed copies to be sent in the mail. Visit websites such as LegalZoom, US Legal Forms or Rocket Lawyer to start the process. Fill out the forms with your detailed information and sign the hard copy when you are finished. Have the paperwork notarized if that is required in your state.

Purchase living will forms and last will and testament kits at your local office supply store. Pick up hard copies of the documents in the legal forms aisle, or buy software programs to create a personalized form on your home computer. Consider Cosmi Perfect Wills, Living Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning Platinum software to create customized documents that are legal in all 50 states; Socrates Last Will & Testament Kit for simple forms that you can fill out and print; or Nolo Quicken Willmaker to create a complete estate plan.

Make an appointment with an attorney to discuss what you want stated in your living will along with your wishes for your last will and testament. Discuss your options for each document. Have the lawyer create your legal documents in the office while you wait.

Pick up a free living will form from your local county probate court, or download the document from the county website. Fill out the paperwork completely and have it notarized to make it a legally binding document.

Go to your local library to investigate if they carry any books containing legal documents that you can duplicate. Check out books such as Personal Legal Forms Simplified by Daniel Sitarz, or The Complete Living Will Kit by Edward A. Haman.