Alaska Wills Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated June 20, 2016
A will is a legally binding document in which the testator (the person to whom the estate applies) designates his or her belongings to family members, loved ones, and other beneficiaries after his or her death. State laws on wills outline certain restrictions, such as age limits, witness requirements, and other rules for creating a valid will. For instance, some states do not recognize handwritten (holographic) or oral (nuncupative) wills at all, while others allow them in certain circumstances. The estates of those who die without a valid will are sorted out in probate court.
Wills Law in Alaska: Overview
The state of Alaska requires testators to be at least 18 and must have the will signed by at least two witnesses. Oral wills are valid if they pertain to mariners at sea or military service members in active duty.
Additional details of Alaska's laws concerning wills are listed below. See FindLaw's Making a Will section for additional articles.
| Code Section | 13.12.501, et seq. |
| Age of Testator | 18 years or older and of sound mind. |
| Number of Witnesses | Signed by at least 2 individuals, each of whom signs within a reasonable time after the witness witnesses either the signing of the will as described in (2) or the testator's acknowledgment of signature or the will. |
| Nuncupative (Oral Wills) | Valid for mariner at sea or soldier in the military service for personal property as he would have done by common law or by reducing the same to writing; proof must be made within 6 months of words spoken or reduced to writing within 30 days |
| Holographic Wills | Recognized as valid if signature and material provisions are in handwriting of testator; does not need to be witnessed. |
| Revocation of a Will | A will or a part of a will is revoked:
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Note: State laws are subject to change at any time through the decisions of higher courts, the enactment of new legislation, and other means. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these pages, you also may want to contact an Alaska estate planning attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
- Alaska Law
- Official State Codes - Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and DC.
Alaska Will Laws: Related Resources
- Alaska Living Wills Law
- What Not To Include When Making a Will
- What is a Simple Will?
- Why It Is Important to Have an Attorney Advise You Regarding Wills
- Estate Planning Forms (Includes Wills)
- Find a Wills Attorney
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.