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Free Codicil to Will Template — Fill Out & Download Instantly

Free — No Sign-Up RequiredPDF & WordUpdated April 5, 2026

A codicil is a legal document that amends, modifies, or supplements an existing last will and testament without revoking the entire will. Instead of drafting a completely new will, a codicil allows a testator to make targeted changes — such as updating beneficiaries, changing the designated executor, adding or removing bequests, or adjusting the distribution of specific assets.

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer: This template is attorney-reviewed and built to US legal standards. It does not substitute for professional legal advice. For complex situations, we recommend consulting a licensed attorney.

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The state where you reside and where the original will was executed

Your full legal name exactly as it appears in your original will

MM/DD/YYYY

The date your original last will and testament was signed

MM/DD/YYYY

The date you are signing this codicil

Clearly describe what is being changed, added, or removed

Describe each change precisely. Reference the article, section, or paragraph being modified. You may add multiple amendments.

MM/DD/YYYY

Date the codicil is notarized (recommended; required in some states)

What Is a Codicil to Will?

A codicil is a legal document that amends, modifies, or supplements an existing last will and testament without revoking the entire will. Instead of drafting a completely new will, a codicil allows a testator to make targeted changes — such as updating beneficiaries, changing the designated executor, adding or removing bequests, or adjusting the distribution of specific assets. For the codicil to be legally valid, it must be executed with the same formalities as the original will: signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses, and notarized in most states.

When Do You Need It?

Use a codicil when you want to make limited changes to your existing will without rewriting the entire document. Common reasons include adding a new beneficiary, removing a deceased beneficiary, changing your executor or trustee, updating the disposition of a specific asset, or adding a new bequest. If you need to make extensive changes, it is generally better to revoke the old will and draft a new one.

What's Included in This Template

  • Testator full legal name, address, and state
  • Reference to the original will and its date
  • Amendment language clearly stating what is changed
  • Affirmation that all other will provisions remain in effect
  • Two witness signature blocks with names
  • Notarization block

How to Fill It Out

1
Identify Your Original Will — Enter the exact date your original last will and testament was executed. This ties the codicil to the correct document and ensures there is no ambiguity about which will is being amended.
2
Describe the Amendments — In the amendments section, clearly state what is being changed, added, or removed. For example: 'I hereby revoke Section III, Paragraph 2 of my Will and replace it with the following: ...' Be precise and unambiguous.
3
Affirm the Remainder of the Will — Confirm that all provisions of the original will not specifically addressed by this codicil remain in full force and effect. This prevents any argument that the entire will has been superseded.
4
Sign Before Two Witnesses — Sign the codicil in the presence of two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries under the will. Both witnesses must sign in your presence and in each other's presence.
5
Notarize the Document — Have the codicil notarized by a commissioned notary public. Most states require or strongly recommend notarization to make the codicil self-proving, which simplifies the probate process.

Legal Requirements & Notes

A codicil must be executed with the same legal formalities as a will to be valid. Key considerations:

  • Execution requirements: In most states, a codicil must be signed by the testator in the presence of two adult witnesses who also sign. Both witnesses should be disinterested parties — i.e., they should not be beneficiaries under the will or the codicil.
  • Self-proving codicil: Having the codicil notarized with a self-proving affidavit (included in this template) allows the codicil to be admitted to probate without requiring the witnesses to testify in court.
  • Holographic codicils: Some states (including California, Texas, and Virginia) recognize handwritten (holographic) codicils that do not require witnesses. However, a typed, witnessed, and notarized codicil is more universally accepted.
  • Attach to original will: Keep the codicil with your original will. Inform your executor of its location.
  • When to use a new will instead: If you are making extensive changes, if the original will is difficult to interpret alongside the changes, or if this is your second or third codicil, it is generally advisable to revoke the old will and execute a new one.
  • Revocation of conflicting provisions: This codicil expressly supersedes any inconsistent provisions in the original will. Courts interpret codicils to revoke only those portions of the original will that are directly inconsistent.

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    A codicil amends specific provisions of an existing will while leaving the rest intact. A new will replaces the old will entirely. A codicil is appropriate for small, targeted changes. If you are making extensive modifications, restructuring your estate plan, or if you have already executed multiple codicils, it is typically cleaner to revoke the old will and execute a new one.

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