Where should I store my original will and trust?

Originals need secure storage and must be findable by the people who may act after incapacity or death. Under some state rules, a missing original may create a presumption of revocation or require extra proof. A licensed attorney can advise about storage choices and missing-document rules in a specific state.

General information

• A home safe can be difficult if no one has the code.
• A bank safe-deposit box can require special access after death.
• The executor and successor trustee may need access to the document location.

Service steps to consider

1. Considering the choice of a fire- and water-resistant location.
2. Considering whether to tell trusted people who may act how to gain lawful access.
3. Keeping a separate inventory of where related deeds and account records are stored.

Quick check

• Did I follow my state's steps?
• Did every person sign in the right place?
• Can my family find the signed original?

How Complete Wills can help

Complete Wills lets customers download or print prepared documents and provides signing guidance. The site may offer optional online notarization or printing and shipping. Customers remain responsible for completing the signing requirements for their state. A notary does not on its own replace required witnesses. Customer support can explain website features and questionnaire fields, but it cannot choose documents, people, distributions, or legal terms, interpret a completed document, or explain how the law applies to a person's facts. Only a separately engaged licensed attorney may provide legal advice within the attorney's engagement.

Important limits

• A prepared document may remain ineffective until it is signed with the witnesses, acknowledgment, notarization, or other steps required by state law.
• If a signing mistake may have occurred, do not guess. Ask a licensed attorney in the governing state. This article gives general information only. A licensed attorney can explain how state law applies to a specific estate plan or document.