As an estate planning attorney who has drafted hundreds of wills for Massachusetts residents over the past decade, I’ve seen firsthand how proper planning brings peace of mind. If you’re searching for information on making a will in Massachusetts, how to write a will in Massachusetts, or a reliable Massachusetts last will and testament template, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through Massachusetts-specific requirements, common mistakes to avoid, and provide a free, attorney-reviewed downloadable template you can use today.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the free template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws change, and your situation may have unique complexities. Always consult a qualified Massachusetts estate planning attorney before finalizing your will.
Without a valid will, Massachusetts intestate succession laws (Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 190B, Article II) decide who inherits your assets — and the results often surprise families. I’ve watched spouses lose control of assets, children from prior marriages get unintentionally disinherited, and favorite charities receive nothing because no will existed.
A properly executed Massachusetts last will and testament lets you:
Massachusetts follows the Uniform Probate Code (MUPC), effective since 2011. To create a binding will in the Bay State, you must meet these requirements (M.G.L. c. 190B, § 2-501 et seq.):
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 18 or older |
| Sound Mind | Understand the nature of the document, your assets, and your relationships |
| In Writing | Typed or handwritten (holographic wills recognized only in limited circumstances) |
| Signature | You must sign (or direct someone to sign in your presence if physically unable) |
| Witnesses | At least TWO disinterested witnesses (not beneficiaries) who watch you sign and then sign themselves |
Source: Mass.gov – Massachusetts law about wills and estates and M.G.L. Chapter 190B, Article II
Massachusetts allows a “self-proving” affidavit (M.G.L. c. 190B, § 2-504). When you and your witnesses sign a notarized affidavit at the same time as the will, your executor can probate the will without tracking down witnesses later — often saving months and hundreds of dollars. I strongly recommend including it.
Follow these steps when using my free Massachusetts last will and testament template:
Click here to download the free Massachusetts Last Will and Testament Template (Word .docx)
Click here for the PDF version
This template includes:
From my experience reviewing DIY wills:
Simple estates under $1–2 million with straightforward wishes can often use a template safely. However, I always recommend attorney review if you have:
Review your will every 3–5 years or after major life events:
Never make handwritten changes on the original — execute a codicil or new will instead.
Can I write my own will in Massachusetts without a lawyer?
Yes, as long as it meets the requirements above.
Does Massachusetts require notarization?
Not for validity, but highly recommended for the self-proving affidavit.
Are online will services safe for Massachusetts residents?
Many are excellent for simple situations, but verify they use MUPC language.
What happens if I die without a will in Massachusetts?
Intestate succession applies — spouse and children split assets in statutory shares.
Can I disinherit my spouse in Massachusetts?
No. Spouses have elective share rights (approximately one-third if children exist).
Every week I meet families who wish their loved one had taken 30 minutes to complete a simple will. Don’t leave your legacy to state formulas.
Download my free, Massachusetts-specific last will and testament template now, fill it out this weekend, and get it witnessed and notarized next week. Your future self — and your family — will thank you.
Download Free Massachusetts Last Will and Testament Template (Word)
Download Free Massachusetts Last Will and Testament Template (PDF)
Remember: This template is a starting point. For complex situations, schedule a consultation with a Massachusetts estate planning attorney. Peace of mind is worth far more than the cost.
Sources:
Mass.gov – Types of Wills
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 190B (MUPC)
IRS.gov – Estate Tax Basics