Living Will Generator | Create a Printable Advance Directive

What is a living will?

A living will is an advance healthcare directive that records the medical treatment you do — and do not — want if you become unable to speak for yourself. It typically covers decisions like life support, mechanical ventilation, artificial nutrition and hydration, resuscitation (DNR), and comfort or hospice care near the end of life.

A living will is different from a last will and testament. A last will distributes your property after death; a living will guides doctors and family about your care while you are still alive but incapacitated. Many people create both, along with a medical power of attorney that names the person who can make decisions on their behalf.

When do you need a living will?

Most adults benefit from having a living will in place before it is ever needed — after a serious diagnosis, before major surgery, when entering a care facility, or simply as part of routine estate planning. Because emergencies are unpredictable, the document only helps if it is prepared in advance and easy for your family and healthcare team to find.

Without a living will, decisions about your care may fall to family members who are unsure of your wishes, or to default state rules — often during an already stressful time. A clear directive removes guesswork and reduces conflict.

Living will signing and witness requirements by state

Signing rules vary by state. Most states require your signature plus either two adult witnesses, a notary, or both. Many states bar certain people — such as your attending physician, healthcare agent, or someone who would inherit from you — from serving as a witness. A few states use a specific statutory form or wording.

After you complete the iRunDocs living will generator, review your state's current advance-directive requirements before signing, then store signed copies with your healthcare agent, doctor, and a trusted family member. iRunDocs helps you produce a clean, organized PDF; it does not replace confirming your state's specific execution rules.

Frequently asked questions

Is a living will the same as a DNR?

No. A DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) is a narrow medical order about CPR. A living will is broader — it covers resuscitation plus life support, artificial nutrition, ventilation, and other end-of-life care preferences.

Does a living will need to be notarized?

It depends on your state. Many states accept two qualified adult witnesses instead of a notary, some require a notary, and a few require both. Confirm your state's advance-directive execution rules before signing.

What is the difference between a living will and a medical power of attorney?

A living will states your treatment preferences. A medical power of attorney names a person (your healthcare agent) to make decisions for you. They work best together, and many advance directives combine both.

Can I change or revoke my living will?

Yes. You can update or revoke a living will at any time while you have capacity. Create a new dated document, destroy old copies, and tell your agent, doctor, and family about the change.

Is an online living will legally valid?

A living will you complete online can be valid once you sign it according to your state's witness or notary rules. iRunDocs generates the document; you are responsible for signing it correctly for your state.

Is iRunDocs a substitute for a lawyer?

No. iRunDocs provides document-generation tools and educational information, not legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your state.

Create a Living Will online with a guided PDF workflow.

Common uses

Before you sign