State requirements
Making a will in Iowa
Iowa requires 2 adult witnesses, does not recognize holographic wills, and offers a self-proving affidavit that speeds up probate. Every rule below is drawn from the statute.
Witnesses
2 adults
Notarization
Optional (affidavit)
Holographic wills
Not recognized
Self-proving affidavit
Available
Overview
Iowa has traditional will requirements. Iowa does NOT recognize holographic wills. Iowa is NOT a community property state but has elective share protections.
Key Statutes
| Statute | Citation | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Testamentary Capacity | Iowa Code § 633.264 | 18+ and of sound mind |
| Execution Requirements | Iowa Code § 633.279 | Written, signed, 2 witnesses |
| Self-Proving | Iowa Code § 633.279 | Available with affidavit |
| Elective Share | Iowa Code § 633.238 | 1/3 of net estate |
Execution Requirements
IOWA WILL REQUIREMENTS:
✓ In writing
✓ Signed by testator (or at direction)
✓ Witnessed by 2 competent persons
✓ Witnesses sign in testator's presence
⚠️ NO holographic wills recognized
Elective Share
IOWA ELECTIVE SHARE:
- 1/3 of decedent's net estate
- All real property in Iowa
- All personal property wherever situated
- Must elect within specified time period
Iowa Inheritance Tax
IOWA INHERITANCE TAX:
- Iowa has inheritance tax (not estate tax)
- Spouse: Exempt
- Lineal heirs: Exempt
- Others: Rates vary
Checklist for Iowa Wills
- •[ ] Testator is 18+ and of sound mind
- •[ ] Will is written
- •[ ] Testator signed
- •[ ] 2 competent witnesses signed in testator's presence
- •[ ] Self-proving affidavit completed
Iowa will questions, answered
Can I make a will online in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa does not require a lawyer to draft a will. A will created online is valid in Iowa when it is properly executed — in writing, signed by a testator aged 18+ of sound mind, and witnessed by 2 adult witnesses.
How many witnesses does a will need in Iowa?
Iowa requires 2 adult witnesses. Witnesses should not be beneficiaries — an interested witness can jeopardize their gift or invite a contest.
Does Iowa require a will to be notarized?
No. Witnesses make a will valid in Iowa, not a notary. A notary is used for the optional self-proving affidavit, which lets the probate court accept the will without contacting your witnesses.
Are handwritten (holographic) wills valid in Iowa?
No. Iowa does not recognize holographic (unwitnessed handwritten) wills made in the state. Your will must be properly witnessed to be valid.
What makes a will legally valid in Iowa?
A valid Iowa will is in writing, made by a person aged 18+ of sound mind, signed by the testator, and attested by 2 adult witnesses.
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Start my will — $29This page is general information about Iowa law, not legal advice. Statutes change — verify current requirements or consult a licensed Iowa attorney for complex situations.