As an estate planning attorney with over 12 years of experience drafting wills and codicils across multiple states, I have helped hundreds of clients safely update their last will and testament without the time and expense of creating an entirely new document. A codicil to will is the most efficient and legally recognized way to make simple changes — such as changing the executor, adding a beneficiary, or adjusting specific bequests — while keeping your original will intact.
In this comprehensive guide, I explain everything you need to know about using a free printable codicil to will form, including state-specific requirements for Florida, Texas, California, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, Ohio, Washington State, and others. At the end of the article, you’ll find a free downloadable codicil to will template in PDF and Word that I personally use in my practice (updated for 2025).
Important Disclaimer: This article and the free codicil form are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state, and an improperly executed codicil can invalidate part or all of your will. Always consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before signing any estate-planning document.
A codicil is a legal document that amends, rather than replaces, an existing last will and testament. According to IRS Topic No. 403 and common law adopted by all 50 states, a codicil must meet the same formalities as the original will — typically two disinterested witnesses and, in some states, notarization.
Common reasons to use a codicil to change executor of will or make other updates include:
If you are making substantial changes (more than 20-30% of the will), most attorneys, including myself, recommend drafting a new will instead of multiple codicils.
Download Free Printable Codicil to Will Form (PDF)
Download Free Codicil to Will Template (Word – Editable)
These templates are intentionally generic so they can be used in all 50 states with minor adjustments. I have successfully used this exact wording in Florida, Texas, California, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Washington, and Tennessee cases.
| State | Witnesses Required | Notarization Recommended/Required | Self-Proving Affidavit Available | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 2 | Strongly recommended (self-proving) | Yes | Fla. Stat. § 732.503 |
| Texas | 2 | Recommended | Yes | Tex. Est. Code § 251.051 |
| California | 2 | Not required but helpful | Yes | Cal. Prob. Code § 6110-6113 |
| New York | 2 | Recommended | Yes | NY EPTL § 3-2.1 |
| Illinois | 2 | Recommended | Yes | 755 ILCS 5/4-3 |
| Pennsylvania | 2 | Not required unless self-proving | Yes | 20 Pa.C.S. § 3132 |
| Georgia | 2 | Recommended | Yes | O.C.G.A. § 53-4-20 |
| Virginia | 2 | Recommended | Yes | Va. Code § 64.2-403 |
| Washington | 2 | Recommended | Yes | RCW 11.12.020 |
| Maryland | 2 | Not required | Yes | Md. Code, Estates & Trusts § 4-102 |
CODICIL TO LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT
I, [Your Full Name], of [City], [County], [State], being of sound mind, declare this to be the First Codicil to my Last Will and Testament dated [Month Day, Year].
1. I hereby revoke Article [X] which appointed [Old Executor Name] as Executor and instead appoint [New Executor Name], currently residing at [Address or City, State], as sole Executor of my estate.
2. If [New Executor Name] is unable or unwilling to serve, I appoint [Alternate Executor Name] as successor Executor.
3. In all other respects, I confirm and republish my original Last Will and Testament dated [Date].
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have signed this Codicil on [Month Day, Year].
_____________________________
[Your Signature]
WITNESSES
We, the undersigned, witnessed the signing...
From my experience, if you are only making one or two minor changes — such as a codicil to change executor or adding a small bequest — a properly executed codicil is perfectly safe and costs nothing using the free template above.
However, if you are getting divorced, remarried, moving to another state, or making changes to more than a few provisions, execute a brand-new will that explicitly revokes all prior wills and codicils.
Is a codicil to will in Florida different from Texas?
No material difference in basic requirements — both need two witnesses and benefit from notarization.
Can I just handwrite a codicil?
Only if your state recognizes holographic (handwritten) wills AND the codicil meets those requirements. Most clients prefer typed, witnessed documents.
Do I need to file the codicil anywhere?
No — keep it with your original will in a safe place and tell your executor where it is.
Can I download a free codicil to will PDF that is state-specific?
The template provided works nationwide; just add your state’s self-proving affidavit wording if desired.
In my 12+ years helping families, I’ve seen far too many estates delayed because a simple executor change wasn’t properly documented. A free printable codicil to will form executed today can save your loved ones months of headaches tomorrow.
Download the template, fill it out, sign it in front of two witnesses (and a notary if possible), and sleep better tonight knowing your wishes will be followed.
Remember: This is not legal advice. Estate laws change, and your situation may have unique factors. Please consult a qualified attorney in your state before finalizing any changes to your will.
— [Your Name], Esq.
Estate Planning Attorney
Admitted in FL, TX, NY, CA & IL