In some jurisdictions, what additional requirement might apply to a holographic will beyond being handwritten and signed?

• A. It must be witnessed by two individuals.
• B. It must be dated.
• C. It must be notarized.
• D. It must be printed on plain paper.

Answer: (B)

Dating a holographic will is important because it helps prove exactly when the document was created and that it reflects the testator’s current wishes. Since a holographic will is handwritten and signed, the date anchors its place in time and supports its status as the last expression of the testator’s intent, especially if there are other writings or later documents that could affect revocation or replacement. Without a date, courts may struggle to determine which version is valid or whether the writing was a draft, a note, or an outdated document.

Two witnesses are typical for attested wills, not necessarily for holographic ones. Notarization is not usually required for holographic wills, and simply being on plain paper doesn’t address the timing issue the date provides.