A self-proving affidavit is an optional addition to your Will that can make probate smoother. It's a short page that you and your witnesses sign in front of a notary public. By confirming the witnesses' signatures up front, it usually means they won't need to be contacted or called on again later — which can save your executor time and effort.
It tends to be worth considering if:
- Your witnesses might be hard to reach in the future.
- Those who'll handle your estate may need to act quickly.
Notarization is usually inexpensive. Some banks and credit unions offer it free to members, and retail notary services often charge a small per-signature fee. A mobile notary who comes to you typically costs more. Because your witnesses generally need to sign the affidavit too, you may wish to have it notarized at the same time you sign your Will, while everyone is already together.
Whether a self-proving affidavit is available, and exactly what it needs to say, can differ from state to state. If one is permissible in your state and you choose to add it, you'll find the form, along with information and instructions, with your downloaded Will document.
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