Is a Will by email Legal?

[DacWill]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Illinois

My husband's father passed a few weeks ago and this started him thinking about what if he passed. So he did will by email leaving me everything and what to do medically and upon death if something happens to him before I pass. Is this legal or should i get it notarized? What about a written signature? Thanks for your advice.

 

[Zigner]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Illinois

My husband's father passed a few weeks ago and this started him thinking about what if he passed. So he did will by email leaving me everything and what to do medically and upon death if something happens to him before I pass. Is this legal or should i get it notarized? What about a written signature? Thanks for your advice.

Definitely NOT a valid will. Nor is it a valid health-care directive. You and your husband should consult with an estate planning specialist.

 

[anteater]

The requirements in Illinois are:

Sec. 4‑1. Capacity of testator.
Every person who has attained the age of 18 years and is of sound mind and memory has power to bequeath by will the real and personal estate which he has at the time of his death.


Sec. 4‑3. Signing and attestation.
(a) Every will shall be in writing, signed by the testator or by some person in his presence and by his direction and attested in the presence of the testator by 2 or more credible witnesses.

(b) A will that qualifies as an international will under the Uniform International Wills Act is considered to meet all the requirements of subsection (a).