26 Feb Where can I get a template to do my own will?

Q. Are there resources you can recommend as to where I can go to get legally binding forms or templates for estate planning documents? Or do I need to go to a lawyer? Also, would you also recommend a revocable trust?
— Looking to save

A. You certainly want to make sure that your estate planning documents are legal.

And you want to ensure the documents satisfy your goals.

Although using a form or template to prepare your will may appear to provide cost savings, the often-resulting need for extensive attorney intervention after death, said Catherine Romania, an estate planning attorney with Witman Stadtmauer in Florham Park.

For example, she said, an attorney may be needed to probate an improperly written or executed document, avoid costly tax issues not considered during planning, or resolve family disputes due to misinterpretation of a clause or failure to include a necessary clause in the document.

Because of that, the upfront savings generally far outweigh the costs to take care of possible problems.

Romania said consultation with an estate planning attorney provides more than the mere drafting of a will.

Depending on your age, family structure and wealth, an estate planning attorney can help you your beneficiaries’ needs and how to best support such needs when you are gone, including the use of life insurance, she said. They can help with tax planning because even if you are below the federal exemption, you can reduce the income tax incurred by your beneficiaries with proper planning. An attorney will also help you determine the attributes necessary in a fiduciary and assist you in selecting the ones best suited for your estate, she said.

Plus, a complete estate plan also will include documents necessary to address incapacity during life such as a medical power of attorney — often referred to as a living will — as well as a financial durable power of attorney.

Now to a trust.

The primary purpose of a revocable trust is to avoid probate with respect to the assets titled in the name of such trust, Romania said.

Unlike irrevocable trusts which may save estate taxes, revocable trusts do not result in tax savings, she said.

The need or desirability of a revocable trust can also be addressed at a consultation with an estate planning attorney.

“The need for such a trust will depend on the type and location of your assets and your willingness to take the time to re-title such assets into the name of the trust during your life in order to allow beneficiaries to avoid probate at your death,” she said.

She recommends you check out the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), which offers guidance and information on various aspects of estate planning on its website. The videos/transcripts can be found under the heading “Estate Essentials.”

The website also can help you find an experienced trust and estate attorney.

Email your questions to .

This story was originally published in February 2026. 

NJMoneyHelp.com presents certain general financial planning principles and advice, but should never be viewed as a substitute for obtaining advice from a personal professional advisor who understands your unique individual circumstances.