Estate Planning for New Yorkers
Secure your future in the Empire State. Simple, affordable, and legally compliant with NY Estates, Powers and Trusts Law.
New York Estate Planning Rules
Creating a will in New York comes with specific requirements. This page provides general information, not legal advice. Verify current requirements with a licensed attorney before relying on a generated document.
Witness Requirements
At least two attesting witnesses must complete attestation within one 30-day period (EPTL §3-2.1)
Probate Threshold
Estates under $50,000 (Small Estate Administration) may qualify for simplified procedures.
Specific Laws You Should Know
Section 3-2.1 Requirements
New York EPTL §3-2.1 requires the testator to sign or acknowledge the signature to each witness and declare the document to be the testator's will. At least two attesting witnesses must sign at the testator's request within one 30-day period. Witnesses should add their residence addresses; omission of an address does not by itself invalidate the will.
Spousal Right of Election
In New York, you cannot completely disinherit a spouse. A surviving spouse has a "Right of Election" to take the greater of $50,000 or one-third of the net estate, regardless of what the will says.
Using My Last Word in New York
The builder provides a printable starting point and a conservative signing checklist. It does not replace state-specific legal advice.
- Printable witness signature lines.
- General state signing reminders.
- Prompts for common estate and digital-asset decisions.