Are online wills legal in Scotland?

Reviewed on 19 March 2023
Illustration of the Scottish flag

Yes, online wills are legal and valid in Scotland as long as you follow the instructions correctly and meet certain requirements like with any will.

What are the requirements to make a will in Scotland?

You need to:

  • be 12 or older
  • be of "sound mind"
  • make the will voluntarily (not under force or threat)
  • make the will in writing
  • sign the will with a witness

Is an online will a good option for me?

Online wills are typically more convenient than traditional will writing and at a fraction of the cost. They are suitable for most people but you could benefit from speaking with a tax advisor in some situations. For example:

  • if you have a large estate (over £1,000,000)
  • if you own property abroad
Show sources

Legal Services (Scotland) Act 2010

Age of Legal Capacity (Scotland) Act 1991, Section 2(2)

Requirements of Writing (Scotland) Act 1995

Catherine Fairbairn, House of Commons Library: "Research Briefing – Regulation of will writers"

Ministry of Justice, United Kingdom: "Decision Notice: Extension of the reserved legal activities"

Scottish Government: "Legal services regulation reform: consultation"

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