Michigan Wills Laws

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed April 18, 2023

A will is a legally binding document that outlines the preferences of the testator (the person writing the will) with respect to the division of property and other holdings after death. In Michigan, will laws require the testator to be at least 18 years old, signed by two competent witnesses, and may not be oral. Unlike most other states, Michigan wills may be handwritten (also referred to as "holographic").

The following chart highlights the main provisions of Michigan will laws. See FindLaw's Wills section for additional articles or create your own will here.

Code Section	MCL §§700.2501, et seq.
Age of Testator	18 years or older and sound mind
Number of Witnesses	Signed by at least two competent persons, each of whom witnessed either the signing or testator's acknowledgment of signature or of will.
Nuncupative (Oral Wills)	Not recognized
Holographic Wills	Valid if dated and testator's signature appears at end of will and material provisions are in testator's handwriting; does not need witnesses.

Note: State laws are constantly changing -- contact a Michigan wills attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

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