Short answer: no. A typed California will does not need to be notarized to be valid. It needs two witnesses. But most estate plans include other documents that do need a notary, which is why families often ask for both at the same appointment.
Signing a will and trust at home?
We come to your home, hospital, or care facility, notarize the documents that need it, and can bring two independent witnesses for $50 each. Estate planning signings are $250 flat.
What California requires for a will
Under California Probate Code section 6110, a typed will must be in writing and signed by the person making it. It must also be signed by two witnesses who were present at the same time and saw the person sign it, or heard the person acknowledge the signature or the will, and who understand that the document is that person’s will.
A notary stamp does not replace those two witnesses. A will that is notarized but not properly witnessed can run into problems in probate.
Handwritten wills
California also recognizes a holographic will: a will where the signature and the important terms are in the person’s own handwriting. A holographic will does not need witnesses or a notary. Fill-in-the-blank forms are riskier, because the typed parts may not count as handwriting.
Who should be a witness
Any competent adult can witness a will, but it is best to use people who receive nothing under it. If a witness is also a beneficiary, California presumes that witness may have pressured the person, unless there were also two other witnesses who receive nothing. That can lead to a court fight. If you do not have two independent witnesses, we can bring them.
Documents in an estate plan that DO need a notary
- Financial power of attorney. Usually notarized, and it must be if it will be recorded or used for real estate.
- Trust transfer deed or grant deed. Must be notarized to be recorded with the county.
- Certification of trust. Banks usually want this notarized.
- Advance health care directive. Either two qualified witnesses or a notary. In a skilled nursing facility, an ombudsman must also witness. See the nursing home rule.
- Transfer on death deed. Needs two witnesses and a notary. See TOD deed rules.
How a signing appointment works
- Your attorney or online service prepares the documents.
- We confirm who is signing, which documents need a notary, and whether you need witnesses.
- We come to you, check ID, and notarize. Witnesses sign the will in front of each other and the signer.
- You keep the originals. Deeds go to the county recorder.
A notary cannot tell you what to put in your will or trust. Bring questions about the content to your attorney.
Frequently asked questions
Does a will have to be notarized in California?
No. A typed California will must be signed by the person and by two witnesses. A notary is not required.
Can a notary witness a will in California?
A notary can sign as one of the witnesses as a private person, but a notary stamp on its own does not satisfy the two-witness rule.
Can a family member witness my will?
Yes, but if that person receives something under the will, California presumes undue influence unless two other disinterested witnesses also signed. It is safer to use people who inherit nothing.
Is a handwritten will valid in California?
Yes, if the signature and the important terms are in your own handwriting. It does not need witnesses or a notary.
Can you bring witnesses?
Yes. We can bring two independent witnesses for $50 per witness.
Last updated November 2026. This article is general information, not legal advice. A notary public cannot prepare a will or advise you on estate planning. Talk to an estate planning attorney about your situation. Wet Ink Notary LLC is not a law firm. Brent Hernandez, California Notary Public #2446864 and Registered Process Server #2006 (San Bernardino County).