You can create a legally valid will online today using trusted platforms that simplify the process and guide you step by step. These tools make estate planning accessible without requiring in-person legal services.
In this article, you’ll learn which online will tools stand out, what makes them effective, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Each platform brings unique features, and I’ll walk you through their strengths from the perspective of someone who has worked alongside countless families planning their estates.
Tool 1: Trust & Will — Streamlined and User-Friendly
Trust & Will is one of the most popular choices for people who want a guided experience. It walks you through each section of your will, asking straightforward questions about beneficiaries, guardians, and assets.
The platform’s design minimizes legal jargon, making it easy for you to stay engaged and avoid confusion. Updates are unlimited, so you can revise documents whenever your life changes.
If you want simplicity, clean navigation, and optional attorney review, this tool is an excellent option. Trust & Will fits best for individuals and families who want peace of mind without complex legal documents.
Tool 2: Quicken WillMaker & Trust (by Nolo) — Full Estate Planning Suite
Quicken WillMaker & Trust goes beyond basic wills. It includes living trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and more. If your estate plan extends beyond a will, this is one of the most complete solutions.
Unlike subscription services, Quicken WillMaker offers a software package you purchase once. That makes it appealing if you want long-term ownership and offline functionality.
This tool is best if you want everything bundled into one suite, especially when your estate involves multiple documents. You’ll appreciate its depth and flexibility.
Tool 3: LegalZoom — Trusted Brand with Attorney Access
LegalZoom has been around for years and is well-known in the legal tech space. Its will-creation process is straightforward, and you can add attorney review for an extra layer of security.
Where LegalZoom stands out is brand reputation. Families and professionals often choose it because it combines self-service documents with access to licensed attorneys.
If you value legal assurance and support alongside your online will, LegalZoom is one of the strongest platforms available.
Tool 4: Rocket Lawyer — Subscription Model with Ongoing Legal Help
Rocket Lawyer provides more than just wills. With a monthly subscription, you can access a library of legal documents, including contracts, powers of attorney, and business forms.
You create a will through guided steps, and if you need help, you can contact attorneys via its “On Call” service. This flexibility makes it an attractive option if you anticipate ongoing legal needs.
Rocket Lawyer is particularly useful if you want broad access to legal documents beyond estate planning or if you expect to update documents frequently.
Tool 5: FreeWill — Cost-Free Basic Planning
FreeWill offers a no-cost option for creating a simple will. Backed by nonprofit organizations, it’s designed for individuals who want to assign beneficiaries, guardians, and assets without paying for premium services.
It also highlights charitable giving, making it appealing if philanthropy is part of your estate plan. While not as extensive as paid tools, it meets basic needs.
If you want a straightforward will without expenses, FreeWill is a practical entry point—though you’ll want to ensure your state’s signing requirements are met.
Key Features to Compare
Choosing the best tool means weighing specific features. Each option brings something different, so you’ll want to evaluate your situation carefully.
- Complexity of your estate: Basic wills work with FreeWill; multi-document planning suits Quicken WillMaker.
- Attorney support: LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer provide legal access; Trust & Will offers optional attorney review.
- Pricing structure: FreeWill is free, Quicken WillMaker is one-time software, and others use subscriptions or packages.
- Flexibility for updates: Trust & Will and Rocket Lawyer allow frequent revisions.
- State compliance: Confirm that your chosen tool follows your jurisdiction’s rules.
“The best online will tool depends on your estate’s complexity, your comfort with self-service, and whether you want legal review.”
How to Ensure Your Online Will Is Valid
Drafting a will online is only the first step—you must follow your state’s legal requirements for it to be enforceable. This usually includes signing with witnesses and sometimes notarization.
Most platforms provide instructions on how to finalize your will. Always print a signed copy and keep it in a secure place where your executor can access it.
It’s wise to revisit your will regularly. Major life events—marriage, children, relocation, or large purchases—should trigger updates.
When Should You Update Your Online Will?
You should update your will whenever significant changes occur in your personal or financial life. Platforms like Trust & Will or Rocket Lawyer make updates simple, but it’s up to you to stay proactive.
Common reasons for updates include the birth of a child, divorce, death of a beneficiary, or buying property. Without updates, your will may no longer reflect your true wishes.
By reviewing your will every two to three years, you avoid disputes and keep your estate plan aligned with current laws and family needs.
Can You Rely on Online Wills for Complex Estates?
Online wills are excellent for straightforward estates, but if your situation involves multiple properties, international assets, or business ownership, you may need additional support.
In those cases, pairing online platforms with legal review is the best path forward. Tools like LegalZoom or Rocket Lawyer allow you to bring in attorneys when complexity rises.
If your estate is unusually complex, consider starting online for efficiency but validating with a professional to avoid gaps.
What are the best tools for creating an online will?
- Trust & Will
- Quicken WillMaker & Trust
- LegalZoom
- Rocket Lawyer
- FreeWill
In Conclusion
Creating a will online has never been easier. Trust & Will delivers simplicity, Quicken WillMaker offers depth, LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer provide attorney access, and FreeWill gives you a cost-free option. By choosing the right platform and following your state’s requirements, you can protect your family and ensure your legacy is secure.
Jason Wootten is the CEO of Family Tree Estate Planning, LLC in Scottsdale, AZ, with 17+ years of experience in the estate and financial planning industry. He specializes in making wills, trusts, and complex financial/legal concepts easy to understand and sponsors the Jason Wootten Scholarship for clear communication.