When it comes to estate planning, creating a last will and testament is one of the most important legal documents you’ll ever need. But here’s the truth: hiring an attorney for every legal document can cost thousands of dollars. That’s where Legal Templates comes in, offering a free last will and testament template that promises to make estate planning accessible to everyone.
I’ve spent time analyzing their platform, and what I’ve discovered might surprise you. Let me show you exactly what Legal Templates offers and whether their free will template is worth your time.
If you want to skip this review and go straight to getting the free template, click here.
What Is Legal Templates?
Legal Templates has been in business for over 10 years, helping create more than 20 million documents for over 2 million registered customers. They position themselves as a cost-effective alternative to traditional legal services, offering automated solutions at a fraction of what you’d pay a lawyer.
The platform covers four main categories:
- Business documents (NDAs, operating agreements, employment contracts)
- Real Estate forms (lease agreements, eviction notices, quitclaim deeds)
- Estate planning (wills, power of attorney, advance directives)
- Personal documents (bills of sale, affidavits, loan agreements)
The Free Last Will and Testament Template: What’s Included
Legal Templates’ will template walks you through a comprehensive 9-step process:
- Basic Information: Name, location, and family status
- Executor Selection: Choose who manages your estate
- Beneficiary Designation: Specify inheritance percentages
- Guardian Appointments: For minor children and pets
- Asset Distribution: Detailed property allocation
- Special Instructions: Personal requests and traditions
- Self-Proving Affidavit: Expedites probate process
- Witness Requirements: Meets state-specific legal standards
- Final Execution: Proper signing procedures
The template is state-specific, which is crucial since will requirements vary significantly across jurisdictions. They provide detailed tables showing testator requirements and signing procedures for each state.
Key Strengths of Legal Templates
Comprehensive Coverage: The template doesn’t just cover basic asset distribution. It includes provisions for pet care, special requests, and even family traditions – details many people overlook.
Educational Value: The platform explains complex legal concepts in plain English. For example, they clearly distinguish between a last will, living trust, and living will – something that confuses many people.
State Compliance: They provide specific legal requirements for each state, including witness requirements and testator qualifications.
Self-Proving Affidavit: This feature can significantly speed up the probate process by eliminating the need for witnesses to appear in court.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations
Not a Substitute for Legal Advice: Legal Templates clearly states they don’t provide legal advice or representation. For complex estates or unique situations, professional guidance remains essential.
Template Limitations: While comprehensive, templates can’t address every unique circumstance. If you have a blended family, significant assets, or complex business interests, customization may be limited.
Customer Service Concerns: Some users report difficulties with subscription cancellations and unexpected charges, particularly with “free trials” that require credit card information.
One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Despite state-specific versions, the template may not capture nuanced details crucial to your specific situation.
Trending Savings Account Deal:
Pricing Structure
Legal Templates offers several options:
- Free Template: Basic access to create a will
- Monthly Subscription: $49.95/month for unlimited access
- Annual Plan: $9.99/month (billed annually) – their best value option
The annual plan provides access to 140+ legal forms, unlimited downloads in PDF and Word formats, and the ability to update and store forms digitally.
Who Should Use Legal Templates?
Ideal Candidates:
- Individuals with straightforward estates
- Those seeking cost-effective estate planning solutions
- People comfortable with self-service legal tools
- Anyone needing basic will creation quickly
Consider Alternatives If:
- You have complex family situations (blended families, estranged relatives)
- Your estate exceeds $1 million
- You own business interests or complex investments
- You need tax planning strategies
Best Practices for Using Legal Templates
- Understand Your Needs: Clearly define your goals before starting
- Review State Requirements: Ensure compliance with local laws
- Customize Carefully: Don’t treat it as a fill-in-the-blank exercise
- Consider Professional Review: Have an attorney review complex situations
- Update Regularly: Review your will every 3-5 years or after major life events
The Bottom Line
Legal Templates offers a solid foundation for basic estate planning. Their free last will and testament template is comprehensive, state-compliant, and educational. For straightforward situations, it can save you significant money while ensuring your wishes are properly documented.
However, remember this isn’t a replacement for professional legal advice. If your situation involves complexity beyond basic asset distribution, consider using the template as a starting point before consulting with an estate planning attorney.
The platform’s strength lies in making legal documents accessible and affordable. While it has limitations, Legal Templates serves an important role in democratizing basic legal services.
My recommendation: Use Legal Templates for straightforward wills, but don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance for complex estates. The peace of mind from proper estate planning is worth the investment, whether through a template or an attorney.
Want to get started? Visit Legal Templates and create your will today – because having any will is better than having no will at all.
Discover more from MoneysMyLife
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.






