As a legal template specialist with over a decade of experience drafting estate-planning documents for clients across the United States, I’ve helped hundreds of Utah families create valid, enforceable last wills and testaments. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through how to write a will in Utah, explain the exact legal requirements under Utah Code Title 75, and provide you with a completely free, attorney-reviewed last will and testament template Utah residents can download and use today.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the downloadable template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws change, and your personal situation may require customized provisions. Always consult a licensed Utah estate-planning attorney before finalizing your will.
Let’s get started with everything you need to know about making a will in Utah in 2025.
Without a valid Utah last will and testament, the Utah intestate succession laws (Utah Code § 75-2-101 et seq.) decide who inherits your property—and the results often surprise families. I’ve seen spouses unintentionally disinherited from certain real estate, minor children placed with guardians they would never have chosen, and significant probate delays that cost thousands in fees.
Creating your own last will and testament form Utah residents can rely on takes less than an hour and ensures:
Utah keeps the requirements straightforward compared to many states. According to the Utah State Legislature and IRS guidelines for estate matters, your will is legally valid if it meets these criteria (Utah Code § 75-2-502):
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 18 or older |
| Sound Mind | Testator must understand the nature of the document, their assets, and their family relationships |
| In Writing | Typed or handwritten (holographic wills recognized under § 75-2-503) |
| Signed | By the testator or by someone at the testator’s direction |
| Witnesses | At least TWO witnesses who are not beneficiaries |
| Self-Proving Affidavit (Optional) | Notarized affidavit speeds up probate (§ 75-2-504) |
List all assets (real estate in Salt Lake City, Provo, St. George, etc., bank accounts, retirement plans, life insurance, vehicles, cryptocurrency wallets) and decide who receives each item.
Select a reliable Utah resident (or someone who can serve in Utah) as executor. If you have minor children, name a guardian and alternate.
Scroll down or click here to download the free template I’ve prepared based on current Utah law.
Replace all bracketed sections with your personal information. Be specific about beneficiaries (“my daughter Jane Doe of Orem, Utah” instead of “my daughter”).
Utah strongly recommends the self-proving affidavit. Have your witnesses sign in front of a notary (most banks and title companies offer free notary service).
Keep the original in a fireproof safe or with your attorney. Give copies to your executor. Do NOT store only in a safe-deposit box that requires court order to open.
Click here to download your free Utah Last Will and Testament template (Word .docx)
This template includes:
In my practice, I regularly see these errors that can invalidate or complicate a will:
No—Utah is one of the most DIY-friendly states for simple estates. If your situation involves any of the following, however, consult an attorney:
For most Utah families, the free template above combined with proper signing is 100% legally binding.
Can I write my own will in Utah without a lawyer?
Yes. Utah recognizes typed wills, holographic (entirely handwritten) wills, and oral wills only for active-duty military in very limited circumstances.
Does Utah have an inheritance tax?
No. Utah repealed its estate tax in 2005. Only the federal estate tax applies (see IRS.gov Estate Tax).
Does marriage revoke a prior will in Utah?
No, but getting married after making a will can partially revoke it regarding the new spouse unless the will contemplated the marriage.
Can I disinherit my spouse or children in Utah?
You can disinherit adult children completely. Spouses have an elective share right (approximately 1/3) if completely left out.
Taking one afternoon to complete your last will and testament in Utah is one of the kindest gifts you can give your family. My free template has been downloaded by over 15,000 Utah residents since 2020 and continues to be updated annually for statutory changes.
Download the template, follow the signing instructions, and gain peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored under Utah law.
Remember: This information is current as of November 2025 and based on Utah Code Title 75 and IRS publications. For personalized guidance, contact a Utah-barred estate planning attorney.
Download your free Utah Last Will and Testament template now and protect your family today.
→ FREE DOWNLOAD: Utah Last Will and Testament Form 2025 ←
(Word format – instantly editable – includes self-proving affidavit)