The Free (or Cheapest) Ways to Get a Legal Will

At Good Grief, we believe end-of-life planning shouldn’t cost a fortune—and the barrier to entry should be much lower. In honor of National Make-A-Will Month this August, we’ve compiled some of the most affordable ways to create a legal will. If you’ve been putting it off because you think it’s expensive or complicated, here’s some good news: writing a will can be quick, affordable, and sometimes even free.

First—Why You Need a Will

A will is a legal document that outlines what happens to your belongings, your children (if you have them), and your wishes after you’re gone. Without one, state laws make those decisions for you—and the outcome may be far from what you intended. Even worse, your family could end up in costly, time-consuming legal disputes, forced to let the courts decide. Without clear instructions, loved ones are left guessing your wishes, often leading to conflict over small details instead of coming together to honor your life.

Free Options for Simple Wills

• Online Will Makers (Free Versions)

  If your situation is straightforward— with a few assets, clear beneficiaries, and no complicated trusts—free platforms can be a great start.

  • FreeWill – Easy to use, covers most basic needs.

  • DoYourOwnWill.com – Simple templates, no frills.

  • LawDepot – Free for 1 week; good if you want to add power of attorney or other documents.

  Pros: Fast, guided, and often state-specific.

  Cons: Limited customization; not ideal for complex estates.

• State-Provided  (Statutory) Will Forms

  Some states offer their own free statutory will forms that are legally valid if you follow the instructions.

  Examples:

  • California Statutory Will

  • Texas Statutory Will

  • Florida Simple Will

  • Maine Statutory Will

  Check your state’s official court or attorney general website.

  Pros: Completely free, legally recognized in your state.

  Cons: Very rigid format; if you customize anything, the state will often reject the form. Not offered in every state. 

• Legal Aid & Nonprofits

  If you qualify for legal aid based on income, you may be able to get a will drafted for free or at a low cost through:

  • LawHelp.org – Connects you to free legal aid in your state.

  • Local bar associations – Many host free “Wills Clinics” during National Make-A-Will Month. Google something such as: “Free Will Writing Workshop Near Me.” 

Low-Cost Options (Under $200)

Basic Online Will Services

If you can spend a little, you’ll get more customization and lawyer-reviewed documents.

• Trust & Will – Wills start at $159, often discounted.

• Rocket Lawyer – $39.99/month with a free trial; includes attorney Q&A.

The Process & Cost in Reality

1. Time: Writing a simple will online usually takes 20–30 minutes.

2. Cost: Free–$200 for most simple online or DIY options.

3. Execution: Almost every state requires two witnesses (not named in your will). Some allow notarization as an extra safeguard.

When Free Isn’t the Best Choice

If you own a business, have significant assets, are in a blended family, or need to set up trusts, skip the DIY route. Hire an estate attorney to make sure your wishes are airtight. Yes, it costs more—but it could save your family time, money, and stress later.

---

Bottom line?

A free or low-cost will is better than no will at all.

This month, take 30 minutes to protect your wishes and give your loved ones the gift of clarity.

Need help with other end-of-life topics? Explore more guides on Good Grief’s blog.