California Last Will and Testament Template

A simple, fill-in Last Will and Testament for California residents who want to leave their property outright to the people they choose. You fill in every blank and mark every choice yourself, then print and sign. Plain-English instructions walk you through it article by article.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• California Simple Last Will and Testament: editable Word (.docx) and print-ready PDF (5 pages)

• Fill-in instructions and signing checklist: Word (.docx) and PDF (3 pages)

WHAT THE WILL COVERS

• Revokes earlier wills and names your spouse and children

• Specific gifts (with alternates) and an optional separate written list for personal items

• Who receives the rest of your estate (the residue), in shares you choose, with alternates

• Survivorship choices

• Executor and an alternate, with a bond choice

• Guardian of the person and of the estate for minor children (optional)

• Witness statement using the wording of the California Statutory Will witness clause (Probate Code 6240), signed under penalty of perjury

HOW IT'S SIGNED IN CALIFORNIA

Sign in front of two adult witnesses who are present at the same time and sign the witness statement (Cal. Prob. Code 6110). California has no self-proving affidavit, and a notary cannot replace the witnesses.

GOOD TO KNOW

• Paper will: the template is set up for signing on paper with everyone physically present.

• This is not the official California Statutory Will form; it is a separate fill-in will that uses that form's witness wording.

• No tax-planning or trust provisions. If your situation is complex (blended family, a business, a large estate, community-property questions, or someone who may contest the will), talk to a California attorney.

INSTANT DIGITAL DOWNLOAD

Nothing is shipped. After purchase, download the zip file, open it in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or any PDF reader, and print on US Letter paper.

Personal-use license for the original purchaser only. No resale or redistribution.

IMPORTANT: This is a fill-in template, not legal advice. Prepared by nonlawyers: Rexford Mercantile is not a law firm, we are not attorneys, and buying or using this template does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change; check California's current requirements before signing.