As a legal template specialist with over 12 years drafting and reviewing estate planning documents across the United States, I’ve helped thousands of individuals create valid wills without paying expensive attorney fees for simple estates. In this comprehensive guide, I’m providing a completely free Kentucky last will and testament template that complies with current Kentucky law (KRS Chapter 394), along with step-by-step instructions on how to make a will in Kentucky in 2025.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly how to complete, sign, and store your Kentucky last will and testament so it holds up in probate court. Let’s get your estate plan started today.
A Kentucky last will and testament is a legal document that lets you decide who receives your property, who cares for your minor children, and who handles your estate after you pass away. Without a valid will, Kentucky’s intestate succession laws (KRS 391.010–391.690) decide everything for you – and the results often surprise families.
Even modest estates benefit from a will. Bank accounts, vehicles, firearms, family heirlooms, and digital assets all pass according to your written directions when you use a properly executed KY last will and testament form.
Under KRS 394.020 and KRS 394.040, Kentucky law requires:
Important: Kentucky does NOT recognize oral (nuncupative) wills except in extremely limited circumstances for soldiers in active service (KRS 394.040). Holographic (entirely handwritten) wills are valid if the signature and material provisions are in your own handwriting – but I strongly recommend using the typed template below to avoid challenges.
Download the free Word/PDF template here:
Download Free Kentucky Last Will and Testament Template (DOCX)
Download Free Kentucky Last Will and Testament Template (PDF)
This template is updated for 2025 and includes self-proving affidavit language (KRS 394.225) that can speed up probate significantly.
The free Kentucky will template includes clear placeholders. Replace everything in [brackets] with your information. Use full legal names – nicknames can cause probate delays.
Kentucky requires two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. Ideal witnesses: neighbors, coworkers, or friends who have nothing to gain from your will.
Have the same two witnesses and a notary sign the affidavit page. This eliminates the need for witnesses to appear in court after your death (KRS 394.225).
Recommended locations:
| Article I – Revocation |
| I, Mary Elizabeth Johnson, of Jefferson County, Kentucky, revoke all prior wills and codicils... |
| Article III – Family |
| I am married to Robert Johnson. We have two children: Emily Johnson (born 3/15/2005) and Michael Johnson (born 11/22/2008). |
| Article V – Executor |
| I appoint my sister, Laura Smith, as Executor. If she is unable or unwilling, I appoint my brother David Brown as alternate Executor. |
While the free Kentucky last will and testament template works beautifully for most straightforward situations, consult a licensed Kentucky attorney if you have:
Does Kentucky have an inheritance tax?
No. Kentucky repealed its inheritance tax effective January 1, 2005. Only federal estate tax applies above the 2025 exemption ($13.61 million per person).
Can I disinherit my spouse in Kentucky?
No. Your surviving spouse has a statutory right to a portion of your estate (dower/curtesy rights under KRS 392).
Do I need to notarize my Kentucky will?
Notarization is not required for validity, but including the self-proving affidavit (which requires a notary) is highly recommended.
How often should I update my will?
Review every 3–5 years or after major life events (marriage, divorce, birth, death, move to another state).
Disclaimer: This article and template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws change, and your situation may have unique factors. Always consult a licensed Kentucky attorney for personalized estate planning advice.
Ready to protect your family today? Download your free Kentucky last will and testament template now and gain peace of mind in under 30 minutes.