A codicil to a will allows you to make changes to an existing will without rewriting the entire document. Life circumstances change—marriage, divorce, new children, updated assets, changes in beneficiaries, or replacing an executor. Instead of drafting a completely new will, a codicil provides a formal way to amend specific provisions while keeping the original will intact.
However, codicils must follow strict formalities to be valid, including proper wording and required signatures (which vary by jurisdiction). That’s why free codicil to will forms and templates in Word are valuable—they provide structured, editable formats to clearly reference the original will, outline amendments, and include proper execution sections.
This guide includes 45+ free codicil to will forms and templates designed to help individuals update their estate plans clearly and professionally.
What Is a Codicil to a Will?
A codicil is a legal document used to modify, add to, or revoke specific parts of an existing will without replacing the entire document.
A codicil typically includes:
✅ Reference to the original will (date of execution)
✅ Clear statement that it is a codicil
✅ Specific amendment language (what is being changed)
✅ Confirmation that other provisions remain valid
✅ Signature of the testator
✅ Witness signatures (and notarization where required)
A codicil must generally meet the same execution requirements as a will to be legally valid.
When Should You Use a Codicil?
A codicil may be appropriate when you need to:
- Change or add a beneficiary
- Update the executor or alternate executor
- Modify asset distribution percentages
- Add or remove a specific bequest
- Update guardian provisions for minor children
- Correct clerical or drafting errors
- Change funeral or burial instructions
If changes are extensive, creating a new will may be more appropriate than multiple codicils.
Why Use Free Codicil to Will Templates?
Templates help ensure clarity and compliance.
✅ Clearly references the original will
✅ Structured amendment language
✅ Includes witness signature blocks
✅ Reduces risk of vague wording
✅ Easy to customize in Word
✅ Printable and easy to store with original will
Templates reduce mistakes that could invalidate the amendment.
45+ Free Codicil to Will Forms and Templates (Word)
Below is a curated collection of codicil templates grouped by purpose and amendment type.
Core Codicil to Will Templates (1–15)
✅ Standard Codicil to Will Template
✅ Simple Codicil to Will Form (Basic)
✅ One-Page Codicil Template
✅ Codicil to Will (Editable Word)
✅ Codicil Referencing Multiple Amendments Template
✅ Codicil with Clear Revocation Clause Template
✅ Codicil with Affirmation of Remaining Will Provisions
✅ Codicil Cover Page Template
✅ Codicil Execution Checklist
✅ Codicil with Witness Declaration Section
✅ Codicil with Self-Proving Affidavit Section (Basic)
✅ Codicil Amendment Confirmation Letter Template
✅ Codicil Correction of Error Template
✅ Codicil Addendum for Specific Clause Update
✅ Codicil Revocation of Prior Codicil Template
Beneficiary and Asset Distribution Codicils (16–28)
✅ Change Beneficiary Codicil Template
✅ Add New Beneficiary Codicil Template
✅ Remove Beneficiary Codicil Template
✅ Modify Percentage Distribution Codicil Template
✅ Add Specific Bequest Codicil Template
✅ Remove Specific Gift Codicil Template
✅ Charitable Donation Amendment Codicil Template
✅ Trust-Related Amendment Codicil Template (Basic)
✅ Real Estate Distribution Change Codicil Template
✅ Personal Property Distribution Update Codicil Template
✅ Business Interest Amendment Codicil Template (Basic)
✅ Residual Estate Clause Amendment Codicil Template
✅ Substitute Beneficiary Codicil Template
Executor, Guardian, and Administrative Codicils (29–39)
✅ Change Executor Codicil Template
✅ Add Co-Executor Codicil Template
✅ Remove Executor Codicil Template
✅ Change Alternate Executor Codicil Template
✅ Update Guardian for Minor Children Codicil Template
✅ Remove Guardian Provision Codicil Template
✅ Update Trustee Appointment Codicil Template (Basic)
✅ Change Funeral/Burial Instructions Codicil Template
✅ Digital Assets Clause Amendment Codicil Template
✅ Personal Representative Powers Amendment Template
✅ Change of Address or Personal Information Codicil
Special Situation Codicils (40–45+)
✅ Marriage or Divorce Amendment Codicil Template (Basic)
✅ Birth of Child Amendment Codicil Template
✅ After-Acquired Property Clause Amendment Template
✅ State Law Compliance Update Codicil Template (Basic)
✅ Military Deployment Codicil Template (Basic)
✅ Complete Codicil to Will Forms Pack (All-in-One)
Why Use Word Format for Codicil Forms?
Codicils require precise language and formatting.
Word format advantages include:
✅ Easy editing of amendment clauses
✅ Structured formatting for legal clarity
✅ Printable signature and witness sections
✅ Easy PDF export for signing
✅ Reusable template for future updates
Word allows careful drafting while maintaining professional presentation.
Best Practices for Codicils
To reduce legal risk:
✅ Clearly reference the original will date
✅ Use precise amendment language
✅ Avoid ambiguous wording
✅ Sign with required witnesses
✅ Consider notarization where appropriate
✅ Store the codicil with the original will
✅ Avoid multiple conflicting codicils
✅ Review state-specific legal requirements
A poorly executed codicil may create confusion during probate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these codicil errors:
✅ Not referencing the original will correctly
✅ Making handwritten changes without formal execution
✅ Failing to meet witness requirements
✅ Creating multiple conflicting codicils
✅ Using vague asset descriptions
✅ Not informing executor or family of updates
Improper execution can invalidate amendments.
Who These Templates Are Best For
- Individuals updating estate plans
- Parents adjusting guardian provisions
- Testators updating beneficiary designations
- Individuals correcting minor drafting errors
- Executors reviewing estate updates
- Estate planners preparing draft amendments
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a codicil legally binding?
Yes, if executed according to applicable state law requirements.
When should I create a new will instead of a codicil?
If you are making multiple major changes, drafting a new will may be clearer.
Do codicils require witnesses?
Typically yes. Most jurisdictions require the same formalities as a will.
Should a codicil be notarized?
Not always required, but self-proving affidavits may simplify probate in some states.
Can I write a codicil by hand?
Some jurisdictions allow handwritten codicils, but formal requirements vary significantly.
Conclusion
A codicil allows you to update your will without rewriting it entirely—providing a structured way to modify beneficiaries, executors, guardians, and asset distributions. The 45+ free codicil to will forms and templates in Word in this guide provide editable formats to help you document amendments clearly and professionally.
Using a properly drafted and executed codicil ensures your updated wishes are recognized while preserving the validity of your original will.
