How to Draft a Will in India: A 2025 Legal Guide
Introduction: Why a Will Matters in 2025
By 2025, people are understanding estate planning better, so writing a will has become necessary for those wanting to secure their family’s future. A will tells how your possessions should be handled when you die. It allows your wishes to be followed and avoids problems among people who inherit your property.
Licit360 has created a guide that will break down the steps of how to draft a will in India in a straightforward and legal manner
What Is a Will Under Indian Law?
As explained in the Indian Succession Act, 1925, a will is a formal statement by someone about how their property will be distributed after they die. It only takes effect once the testator (the will’s creator) has passed away.
Key Benefits of Making a Will
- Avoids family disputes
- Ensures smooth transfer of assets
- Gives you control over who inherits what
- Simplifies legal procedures for heirs
- Appoints a guardian for minor children
Legal Requirements for a Valid Will in India (2025)
To ensure your will is legally enforceable, it must comply with the following:
Requirement | Details |
Testator | Must be of sound mind and 18 years or older |
Written Form | Should ideally be in writing (handwritten or typed) |
Signature | Testator must sign the will at the end |
Witnesses | Must be signed in the presence of at least two witnesses |
Voluntary | Should be made without coercion, fraud, or undue influence |
Note: Registration of a will is not mandatory, but it adds legal strength.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drafting a Will in 2025
1. Start with Your Personal Details
Include:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Permanent address
- Declaration that you are of sound mind
2. Declare the Document as Your Last Will
Use a clear statement such as:
“This is my last will and testament, revoking all previous wills and codicils.”
3. List Your Assets
Detail movable and immovable properties:
- Bank accounts
- Real estate
- Jewelry
- Investments (mutual funds, shares)
- Digital assets (optional but important in 2025)
4. Mention the Beneficiaries
Clearly state:
- Names of beneficiaries
- Relationship with you
- What each person will receive
5. Appoint an Executor
The executor is responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will. Choose someone trustworthy and capable.
6. Include Guardian Details (If You Have Minor Children)
Mention who should take care of your children and manage their share until they reach maturity.
7. Sign the Will
Sign at the end of the document.
8. Get It Witnessed
Have at least two witnesses sign in your presence (they should not be beneficiaries).
Should You Register a Will?
You can register your will at the Sub-Registrar’s Office under the Registration Act, 1908 if you prefer to have increased legal security. In 2025, due to more digital frauds, having a registered account will decrease the risk of its contents being contested.
Sample Will Format (2025)
Here’s a simplified template:
WILL
I, [Full Name], aged [Age], residing at [Address], being of sound mind, declare this to be my last will and testament.
I bequeath the following assets to my beneficiaries:
- [Name], my [Relation] shall receive [Asset Description].
- …
I appoint [Executor’s Name] as the executor of this will.
Signed on [Date] at [Location].
[Signature of Testator]
Witnesses:
- [Name, Address, Signature]
- [Name, Address, Signature]
How Licit360 Can Help You
At Licit360, we provide:
- Will Drafting Services (online & offline)
- Legal Consultation with experienced lawyers
- Will Registration Assistance
- Customized Estate Planning Solutions
Book a Free Consultation at www.licit360.in
Final Thoughts
Creating a will is now common for people of all ages and financial situations. By 2025, getting life insurance is a dependable decision for anyone in India. It helps your assets be distributed to your chosen people with no legal or emotional complications for your family.
Need Help Drafting Your Will?
Let Licit360 manage your legal problems for you. Our lawyers can guide you in writing a clear, valid and future-proof will.
Contact Us Today or WhatsApp us for quick support.