Frequently Asked Questions

It takes approximately 15 minutes to register a Will  and about 5 minutes to search for a Will.

A recent public survey showed that 67% of people did not know where to find their parents' Will. Over the course of time, children forget, the Will is moved or possibly lost. By registering the location of the Will and/or the name of the Attorney who prepared the Will, you can be confident your Will can be located.

Not being able to locate a Will causes untold distress and the potential financial loss for a family, or beneficiary. Registering your Will can ensure that if your Will is lost, misplaced or forgotten over the passage of time, it can be easily found.

• Your beneficiaries may not receive inheritance in accordance with your instructions.
• Your Will may be found after your estate has been distributed.
• The Courts distribute your assets under the rules of Intestacy.
• An old Will may be discovered and deemed to be your final wishes.
• Family disputes can occur.
• Your children and dependents may not be looked after in the way you have stated in your Will.
• It may be assumed that you never wrote a Will.

Everyone should have a will! A Will may be the most important document you will ever produce. It protects and distributes your assets in accordance with your wishes. It’s a fallacy that you have to have a lot of money or assets to need a Will. Many families argue more over sentimental items, (a favorite ring or necklace), than money. To avoid family disputes, have a Will written to make your final wishes perfectly clear. Simply click on FIND AN ATTORNEY to write and register your Will for you.

No, The U.S. Will Registry does not accept copies of documents. Only the location / Attorney’s contact information is entered.

You can find an Attorney near you by simply clicking: FIND AN ATTORNEY. Costs vary depending on the complexity of the Will.

• It is always suggested that an attorney writes your Will to:
• Alleviate disputes
• Be assured that your Will meets state guidelines.
• If you need an attorney to write or review a Will in your local area, search our Find An Attorney section of the site. Make sure you have your Attorney register your Will as well.

Your registration will be stored until you would reach 150 years of age.  Each registration has your birthdate.  The Registry calculates 150 years from your birthdate to assure your registration will be available when your family will need it.