How many witnesses do I need and what must they do?

You need two independent adults as witnesses; they must watch you sign your will, then each sign it themselves in your presence and in each other’s.

Why it matters

Having the correct number of eligible witnesses following the proper steps ensures your will is valid in England and Wales. If you use the wrong number or they don’t follow the rules, your will—or gifts to anyone involved—could be declared invalid.

Number and role of witnesses

1. Number required: Exactly two witnesses, both aged 18 or over.
2. Eligibility:
   • Must not be beneficiaries under your will, nor married or in a civil partnership with a beneficiary.
   • Should understand they are witnessing a legal document.
3. What they must do:
   • Presence: Both watch you sign the final version of your will in the same room, at the same time.
   • Signing order: After you’ve signed, each witness signs immediately:
     • They sign in your presence.
     • They sign in each other’s presence.

Common mistakes

• Adding extra witnesses: More than two doesn’t help—and extra signatures can cause confusion.
• Witnesses signing out of order: If they sign before you, the will may be treated as unsigned.
• Remote witnessing: All three signatures must happen together in person.

Next steps

1. Try our Estate Planning Health Check to confirm your will’s requirements.
2. Complete your details in our paid online will-writing service—it guides you step by step.
3. Once you receive your will, arrange for two eligible witnesses to watch you sign it and then have them sign themselves, and store the document safely.

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