There was a time when handwritten wills were the only option available. Then, typed and printed documents became the most common option. Now, testators even have the option of creating electronic or digital estate plans.
People in Georgia creating their first wills or modernizing their existing documents might like the convenience and portability of an electronic document. Electronic wills that contain digital signatures and remote witnesses have become much more common in recent years.
Is Georgia among the states that have passed laws allowing for the use of digital or electronic wills?
Georgia requires physical documents
Currently, Georgia state statutes do not recognize the validity of electronic or digital wills. People can work remotely with an attorney to set the terms in a will, but they must be physically present to sign the will. They also need to have a physical copy of the document for the probate courts after they pass.
Electronic copies of physical wills can be beneficial, as testators can send them to friends and family members if they so choose to inform them of their right of inheritance. For the time being, however, testators must create physical documents that they or an agent sign for the probate courts to recognize the validity of their testamentary instruments.
Individuals who have created electronic documents in other states may need to review and update their estate plans after relocating to Georgia to ensure that their wills conform to local statutes. Reviewing an existing estate plan and discussing testamentary wishes with an estate planning attorney can help Georgia residents ensure that their wills meet all state requirements.