Does my simple Will need to be filed to be valid?

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Does my simple Will need to be filed to be valid?

And, if so, where is it to be filed?

Asked on October 10, 2012 under Estate Planning, Ohio

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

There is no legal requirement that a Will be recorded or filed before the testator's (that's the person who makes the Will) death. However, while it's not required, you can have a copy your Will deposited the Probate Court for safekeeping; you can do this for a small fee in the county in which you reside.  However, you should be aware that any changes to your Will would necessitate either re-depositing any new Will or "codicil" (that is an amendement to a Will if only small changes are made). Additionally, in case you move you would need to deposit a copy in the Probate Court of your new county of residence. 


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