Testator
The person who makes a will. To be a valid testator, a person must generally be at least 18 years old and of sound mind — able to understand what property they own, who would naturally inherit it, and the effect of signing the will.
What it means
The testator (historically "testatrix" for women) is the author and subject of a will. Testamentary capacity is judged at the moment of signing: the testator must comprehend the nature of the act, the extent of their property, and the natural objects of their bounty. Courts presume capacity; challengers bear the burden of proving otherwise.
Primary sources
Read more
- Is an Online Will Legal? State Rules That Decide (2026) — Online wills are legal in all 50 states when signed and witnessed correctly. See the exact execution rules that make or break validity, state by state.