Overview
A will lets you decide how your property passes after your death and who carries out your wishes (the executor). Without one, property passes under the succession law that applies to you, which may not match what you want and can lead to family disputes.
For most people in India, a will must be in writing, signed by the person making it, and attested by at least two witnesses who see them sign (section 63 of the Indian Succession Act, 1925). Registration is optional, but it creates an official record and makes it harder to dispute the will's existence. Muslims are generally governed by their personal law, which limits what can be left by will. In some places a will needs probate before the executor can act.
If your wishes are simple, you can prepare a will yourself in the Xegality app. For larger estates, businesses, property in several states or family situations that need care, our team works with an advocate we work with to draft it, and helps with execution and registration.
Who needs it
- Anyone who owns property, savings or investments and wants to choose their heirs
- Parents who want to name guardians or provide for a dependant
- Business owners planning succession
- People who want to update an old will
Documents required
What we usually ask for. Our team confirms the exact list for your case before anything is filed.
- Your identity proof and address
- List of assets: property, bank accounts, investments, valuables
- Names and relationships of the people who will inherit
- Name of the executor (and an alternate)
- Two witnesses (who should not be beneficiaries)
How it works
- 1
Your wishes
We take down your assets, beneficiaries, executor and any special wishes.
- 2
Draft
The will is drafted in clear language that avoids ambiguity.
- 3
Review
You review it; we revise until it says exactly what you want.
- 4
Execution
You sign in the presence of two witnesses, who sign too. We explain how to do this properly.
- 5
Registration (optional)
If you choose, the will is registered at the sub-registrar's office.
Typical timeline
Drafting depends on how complex your estate and wishes are. Registration, if chosen, depends on the sub-registrar's appointment schedule.
Prefer to do it yourself?
- Make it yourself in the Xegality app — A guided will with the attestation clause for two witnesses; sign in as a client.
Get a free quote
Answer a few questions and our team will contact you. It takes about two minutes.
Official sources
The government portals and laws this page is based on:
Please note