You can write a will yourself in Thailand, but a wholly handwritten will has specific legal formalities. Under Section 1657 of the Civil and Commercial Code, the testator must write the entire text, including the day, month, year, and signature, by hand. Typing part of the document or making changes without following the required form may lead to disputes.
Checklist before writing
- Write the date clearly.
- Identify yourself and state your wishes for the estate in clear language.
- Check that the intended beneficiaries and property are described accurately.
- If you amend the document, make the change by hand and sign to authenticate it as required by law.
- Store the original safely and tell a trusted person where it can be found.
This checklist is only a basic form review; it does not confirm that a particular will is legally valid. If the estate includes several types of property, multiple beneficiaries, minors, or a dispute, consult a lawyer or consider an official will made before a competent official. The Bureau of Registration Administration guide explains the official-will process, and the Senate reference discusses Sections 1656–1657.
Details people often overlook
Check whether an earlier will conflicts with the new document. Name an estate administrator when appropriate, and review the will when your property or family circumstances change. Do not put bank account numbers, passwords, or private keys in a will that may be accessible to others.
The linked video discusses general financial planning, not the legal formalities for making a will. Use the official references above for the legal details. For related topics, read how to store a will safely and how to organize estate information.
Official references: Thai Senate: will forms under Sections 1656–1657 · Bureau of Registration Administration: official will procedure