Keystone State Estate Planning
Smart, simple planning for Pennsylvania residents. protect what you've built.
Pennsylvania Estate Planning Rules
Creating a will in Pennsylvania 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
A written will must be signed at the end; two witnesses are required for signing by mark or by another person (20 Pa.C.S. §2502)
Probate Threshold
Estates under $50,000 may qualify for simplified procedures.
Specific Laws You Should Know
Signing and Witness Rules
Pennsylvania generally requires a written will signed by the testator at the end. Section 2502 specifically requires two witnesses when the testator signs by mark or when another person signs the testator's name at the testator's direction. Using two disinterested witnesses and a notarized self-proving affidavit is still the safer probate practice.
Inheritance Tax
Unlike many states, Pennsylvania DOES impose an Inheritance Tax on assets left to children (4.5%), siblings (12%), and others (15%). Spouses are exempt. Planning is critical here.
Probate Procedure
PA has a relatively efficient probate system. You can even "pre-pay" inheritance tax to get a discount. A clear will helps your executor navigate these unique tax rules.
Using My Last Word in Pennsylvania
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.