What happens if my will is lost or destroyed?

If your original signed will is lost or destroyed, it can create serious complications, since some states presume a missing original was intentionally revoked or destroyed by the person who made it, which can be difficult to overcome even with a copy.

General information

• Courts generally require the original signed document, not just a copy, to admit a will to probate.
• Some states allow a copy to be used if you can prove the original was lost accidentally rather than intentionally destroyed.
• Storing your original in a safe, known location and telling your executor where it is helps prevent this problem.

Service steps to consider

1. Store your original signed will in a safe, fireproof location.
2. Tell your executor or a trusted person exactly where it's stored.
3. Consider creating a new will if your original is ever lost or destroyed.

Quick check

• Do I know exactly where my original signed will is stored?
• Does my executor know where to find it?

How Complete Wills can help

Complete Wills' storage guidance is built to help you avoid exactly this kind of problem. The platform emphasizes keeping your original signed document somewhere safe and making sure your executor knows its location, since a lost original can be difficult, and sometimes impossible, to fully overcome later even with a downloaded copy on hand.

Important limits

• Rules for handling a lost or destroyed original will vary by state, and a licensed attorney can advise on your specific situation.