No, under the laws of the State of New York, a handwritten will (known as a “holographic” will) is only acceptable under very limited circumstances, such as military personnel or support staff who have been deployed during wartime, or mariners at sea.
In both of these cases, holographic wills expire after a set period of time, and the individual will need to have a will that is properly drawn up and witnessed.
When a person or family has assets or wealth they wish to pass on in Buffalo, it’s important that steps are taken not only to ensure proper disposition upon their death, but also to take any steps necessary to minimize the tax burden of inheritance on their heirs.
Depending on your situation and goals, these may be straightforward or more complicated steps, but in all cases they can save you and your heirs time and worry.
The attorneys at Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, PC help families in Buffalo plan for uncertainties and protect them from problems they may not see coming.
Call us today at 716-542-5444 to speak to an experienced Buffalo wills and estates attorney for free.