Estate Planning Glossary
A notarized statement attached to a will, signed by the testator and witnesses, that eliminates the need for witnesses to testify in court during probate.
Plain English
A self-proving affidavit is an extra page you attach to your will when signing. You, your witnesses, and a notary all sign it. When your will goes through probate, the court accepts it as valid without hunting down your witnesses to testify. It doesn't change your will at all — it just makes probate faster and less complicated.
Why it matters
Witnesses may be hard to locate years after you sign your will. A self-proving affidavit eliminates that problem entirely. It's a simple extra step when signing that saves your family significant hassle later.
First Light's next steps guide explains the self-proving affidavit process for your specific state.
Common questions
No — it's optional in most states but strongly recommended. Without it, one or both witnesses may need to appear in court during probate to verify their signatures, which can be difficult if years have passed.
When you sign your will, go to a notary with your two witnesses. The notary will administer oaths and notarize the affidavit page. All three of you sign in front of the notary. Most office supply stores and banks have notaries available.
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