How to Create a Valid Will in Wyoming: A Simple Guide

A will is a special paper that says what you want to happen to your stuff—like your house, money, or even your favorite guitar—after you’re gone. It’s a big deal because it makes sure your wishes are carried out. Plus, it’s not as hard as it sounds! Let’s walk through how to make a valid will in Wyoming in a way that’s easy to understand.

Why You Need a Will

First, why bother? Well, if you don’t have a will, Wyoming has rules that decide who gets your things. These rules might give your stuff to your spouse or kids, but maybe not how you’d like. For example, you may want ALL of your stuff to go to a spouse; or ALL of your stuff to go to your kids. Or maybe you want your best friend or a charity to get something specific; they won’t unless you write it down. A will puts you in control.

Who Can Make a Will?

In Wyoming, you can make a will if you’re 18 or older and your mind is sound. That just means you know what you’re doing and aren’t confused or forced into it. (See Wyoming Statutes § 2-6-101).

What Makes a Will “Valid” in Wyoming?

For your will to work in Wyoming, it has to follow a few simple rules. Here’s what you need:

1. Put It in Writing

   Your will has to be on paper—not just something you say or type on your phone. You can write it by hand or type it up and print it (Wyoming Statutes § 2-6-112).

2. Sign It

   You need to sign your will at the bottom. If you can’t sign because your hand doesn’t work well, you can ask someone to sign for you—but you have to tell them to do it while you’re watching (Wyoming Statutes § 2-6-112).

3. Get Two Witnesses

   Two people need to see you sign your will. They have to be “competent,” which means they’re adults who understand what’s going on. Important tip: don’t pick people who are getting stuff from your will (like your kids or spouse). If they’re “interested” in the will, Wyoming says you need two extra witnesses who don’t get anything. These witnesses sign the will too, saying they saw you sign it (Wyoming Statutes § 2-6-112).

Steps to Make Your Will

Ready to get started? Here’s what to do:

1. List Your Stuff

   Write down what you own—your car, house, bank account, even your pet. Think about who you want to give it to.

2. Pick a Person to Handle It

   Choose someone you trust to be your “executor.” This is the person who makes sure your will is carried out. It could be a family member or friend (Wyoming Statutes § 2-6-201 & 208).

3. Write the Will

   You can use a computer or pen and paper. Say who you are, that this is your will, and what you want to happen to your stuff. Keep it simple and clear.

4. Sign with Witnesses

   Grab your two witnesses, sign the will in front of them, and have them sign too. Make sure they’re not getting anything from the will.

5. Store It Safely

   Put your will somewhere safe, like a locked box or with a lawyer. Tell your executor where it is so they can find it when they need it.

What If You Want to Change It?

Life changes, and so can your will! If you get married, have a kid, or just change your mind, you can make a new will. Just follow the same rules—sign it and get witnesses. If you want to cancel your will, you can rip it up or burn it (seriously!), or make a new one that says the old one doesn’t count anymore.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

You don’t absolutely have to hire a lawyer. If your stuff is simple—like a house and some savings—you might be able to do it yourself with online forms or a guide—but you are running the risk of making a mistake. If you have a big estate, tricky family stuff, or questions, a lawyer can help make sure everything’s done right.

Final Thoughts

Making a will in Wyoming is like giving directions to your loved ones. It’s your chance to say, “this is what I want.” By writing it down, signing it, and getting witnesses, what you want takes on the force of law—even after you are gone.