A will and testament forms kit lets you create binding legal documents without hiring an attorney—but quality, cost, and completeness vary significantly across suppliers. Understanding what's included, how long the process takes, and realistic pricing helps you avoid cheap kits that leave gaps in your estate plan. This guide breaks down the essentials so you can choose a kit that actually protects your family.
What's Included in a Typical Will & Testament Forms Kit
Most quality kits contain templates for a last will and testament, but scope differs. Standard packages usually include the will form itself, instructions for filling it out, and sometimes worksheets to organize your assets and beneficiary information. Premium kits go further—adding advance directives, powers of attorney, living wills, and beneficiary designation forms.
Before purchasing, verify what state-specific versions are included. A kit designed for California won't meet New York requirements, and using the wrong state template can invalidate your documents. Check whether the kit provides sample completed forms so you can see exactly how to fill in your own.
Many kits also bundle notarization guidance, witness requirements, and storage instructions—critical details that prevent your will from being challenged later.
Price Ranges for DIY Will Kits
Basic kits: $15–$50 typically include just the will template and instructions. These work if your estate is simple (no minor children, few assets), but they often skip supplementary documents that protect your interests.
Mid-range kits: $50–$150 add legal guidance, multiple document types, and state-specific variations. This tier usually includes downloadable PDFs and sometimes access to form customization software.
Premium kits: $150–$300 may offer online interactive builders, video tutorials, attorney review options, or comprehensive estate planning bundles with trusts and asset protection forms.
Subscription-based services (LegalZoom, Nolo, Rocket Lawyer) typically charge $100–$300 annually, with some offering attorney consultations for an extra fee. Compare total lifetime cost, not just upfront price—a cheap kit requiring you to buy state-specific versions later adds up quickly.
How Long Does DIY Testament Completion Take?
Most people complete a basic will in 1–3 hours if they've gathered necessary information beforehand. This assumes you know your assets, debts, and who you want as executor and beneficiaries.
Add 2–5 hours if you need to organize financial records, decide on guardians for minor children, or work through more complex asset distribution. Notarization and witness signing typically add another day or two, depending on availability.
Some kits include automated interviews that walk you through questions step-by-step, reducing decision fatigue but potentially extending the timeline slightly.
Key Steps in the DIY Process
- Gather documents: Collect bank statements, property deeds, insurance policies, and investment account information.
- Choose your executor: Identify someone trustworthy to manage your estate.
- List beneficiaries: Name who inherits what, including alternate beneficiaries.
- Complete the template: Fill in blanks or use software-guided builders.
- Have it notarized: Most jurisdictions require notarization; some require witnesses or both.
- Store safely: Keep originals in a secure location and inform your executor where to find them.
When to Skip a Forms Kit and Hire a Professional
If your estate exceeds $500,000, involves multiple properties, or includes blended families, minor children with special needs, or a family business, a forms kit alone may not suffice. Similarly, if you anticipate contested bequests or want a trust structure for tax planning, an attorney is worth the $1,000–$3,000 investment.
Forms kits work best for straightforward estates with clear beneficiaries and no major complications. When in doubt, many kits include attorney consultation add-ons you can purchase if questions arise during completion.
Finding Quality Kits Worth Your Money
Look for kits that specify which states they cover, include sample completed forms, and offer clear revision policies. Read customer reviews on independent sites—not just vendor testimonials—and check whether the publisher has legal credentials (many legitimate kit publishers are founded by attorneys or paralegals).
Mercoly helps you compare trusted legal forms providers in one place, making it easier to spot kits with consistent positive feedback and fair pricing. Verify the kit was updated within the last two years, since probate and inheritance laws change regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I update my will after using a forms kit? Yes—most kits provide amendment (codicil) templates, though major changes often warrant creating an entirely new will to avoid confusion.
Q: Do all states recognize will templates from national kits? Most reputable kits include state-specific versions, but always confirm your state is covered before purchasing, as requirements vary significantly on witness counts and notarization.
Q: Should I notarize my will myself, or does the kit provider handle it? You arrange notarization independently through a local notary public; kits provide guidance but not the service itself.
Start by assessing your estate complexity, then compare kits that match your state and budget tier.