The Hidden Risks of DIY Wills and How to Avoid Them
Writing your will online might seem like the easy, affordable solution. With just a few clicks and a credit card, you can “check estate planning off the list.”
But here’s the truth: a DIY will can cost your family far more than you save today.
During Make-a-Will Month, it’s essential to understand that estate planning is not one-size-fits-all. Especially in retirement, with more assets and life complexities in play, a basic will template may not protect what matters most.
What Is a DIY Will?
A DIY will is typically created using:
- Online will-making websites
- Printable templates
- Fill-in-the-blank software
- Handwritten (holographic) wills in some states
These methods are meant to be quick and inexpensive—but they often fail to account for the legal, financial, and family-specific nuances of a real estate plan.
The 5 Most Common Risks of DIY Wills
1. State Laws Vary—And Change Often
- Each state has its own rules for:
- Witnessing requirements
- Who can serve as executor
- Property distribution laws
What’s valid in one state may be invalid in another. Most DIY services don’t account for these details.
2. Outdated or Incomplete Language
A generic template may not cover:
- Digital assets (like online accounts)
- Retirement accounts and annuities
- Real estate in other states
- Disinheritance clauses
Missing or unclear language can lead to court challenges.
3. Beneficiary Conflicts
Your will does not override:
- Life insurance policies
- Annuities
- IRAs or 401(k)s
If your DIY will says one thing and your account paperwork says another, your will is ignored.
4. Failure to Fund a Trust
Many people create a DIY trust—then forget to move assets into it. Without proper funding, the trust does nothing, and your estate may still go through probate.
5. Unintended Heirs and Family Disputes
If your will is vague or improperly executed, it may be contested or thrown out—leaving your assets to be distributed according to state law, not your wishes.
Real-Life Scenario: The Expensive DIY Mistake
Barbara used an online template to write her will, thinking it was enough. She forgot to update her life insurance beneficiaries and never had the will properly witnessed.
When she passed, the will was declared invalid. Her children had to go through probate, pay legal fees, and wait over a year to access their inheritance.
What Barbara thought would save money ended up costing her family time, money, and emotional stress.
When a DIY Will Might Work (and When It Doesn’t)
A DIY will may be suitable if:
- You have very few assets
- No real estate
- No dependents
- No unique family dynamics (like stepchildren or estranged heirs)
- You’re single, with no children
💬 Even then, it’s recommended to have an attorney review your documents.
A DIY will is not enough if:
- You own property or assets in multiple states
- You’re married or in a second marriage
- You have children, grandchildren, or dependent adults
- You have a blended family
- You want to leave assets to a charity
- You’re using a trust as part of your plan
Better Alternatives to a DIY Will
If you want more than the basics—and most retirees do—consider working with:
An Estate Planning Attorney
They ensure your documents meet legal standards, align with state laws, and reflect your true intentions.
A Retirement-Focused Financial Professional
They’ll help coordinate your will, trust, life insurance, annuities, and account beneficiaries into a complete legacy strategy.
What a Professional Can Help You Do
- Avoid probate where possible
- Reduce estate taxes
- Coordinate titling and beneficiary designations
- Set up trusts for minors, dependents, or charitable giving
- Ensure guardianship instructions are legally valid
- Review your plan regularly as life changes
💬 Ask Yourself: If something happened tomorrow, would your will hold up in court—and actually carry out your wishes?
If you created it yourself and aren’t sure, now is the time to take action.
Action Steps
- Find your current will. If it was created online or more than 5 years ago, it likely needs an update.
- Check that it was properly executed according to your state’s rules.
- Review your beneficiary designations. Make sure they align with your will or trust.
- Speak with an estate planning professional who understands retirement needs and probate avoidance.
You Deserve Peace of Mind—So Does Your Family
A will isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s your voice when you’re no longer here. Don’t let a template decide your legacy.
Make-a-Will Month is about protecting your loved ones from confusion and court delays. A professionally crafted estate plan is one of the most generous gifts you can leave behind.
🔜 Coming Up Next:
In our next article, we’ll explore how to write your legacy with more than just money in mind—including ethical wills and legacy letters that pass down values, not just valuables.
🧑💼 Written by Brent Meyer, founder of SafeMoney.com. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience in annuities and retirement planning, Brent is committed to helping Americans make informed, confident financial decisions.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult a qualified estate planning attorney or financial professional to discuss your specific situation.
