The second requirement to make a valid will is to have the testator sign the will. This happens just like it sounds. After the will has been reviewed, created on a word processor, and printed out, the testator must hand-sign the will.
The signature can be anything (even just a mark) as long as the signature was intended to be the signature of the testator (but would still have to be proven in probate court). Some states also require the signature to be at the very end of the will (this is also the best practice, even if it is not required).
In addition, there are situations where someone else can sign for the testator. For example, if the testator is near death and does not have the physical capacity to sign his or her own will, a legal guardian can physically sign for the testator as long as done so in the testator’s presence. However, remember that the testator must still have the mental capacity to understand what he or she is signing. There are other nuances that come up with signatures, but this covers the basics.
Next, we’ll go over the third requirement to create a valid written will.