Knowledge & Resources
Wills and estate planning
What a will does, how to write one, and what your state requires for it to count.
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Wills and estate planning
What a will does, how to write one, and what your state requires for it to count.
Illinois requires two credible witnesses attesting in your presence, and presumes a will void if it was made after the testator was adjudicated disabled.
Every Illinois will must be in writing, signed by the testator or by someone in the testator's presence and at their direction, and attested in the presence of the testator by two or more credible witnesses. A will that qualifies as an international will under the Uniform International Wills Act is treated as meeting these requirements.
755 ILCS 5/4-3
No. The statute requires two credible witnesses attesting in the testator's presence, not a notary, and notarizing an Illinois will does not substitute for them.
755 ILCS 5/4-3
Every person who has attained the age of 18 years and is of sound mind and memory may dispose of their real and personal estate by will in Illinois. Note a further rule: there is a rebuttable presumption that a will or codicil is void if it was executed or modified after the testator was adjudicated disabled.
755 ILCS 5/4-1
755 ILCS 5/4-3 (Signing and attestation). In writing, signed by the testator (or by some person in their presence and by their direction), and attested in the presence of the testator by two or more credible witnesses.
Links last checked 2026-08-25.
This is general information about the law, not legal advice, and it has not been reviewed by an attorney licensed in Illinois. Requirements change. Confirm the current rules for your state before you sign.
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