Once your estate plan has been completed and printed, the final step is execution—signing and notarizing (according to state requirements) the documents that make your plan legally valid.
Important: Without proper signatures, your estate plan can’t be enforced.
Why Execution Matters
Executing your documents transforms them from drafts into legally-binding instructions. Until they are properly signed, they won’t hold legal weight.
This process ensures:
Your instructions are valid and enforceable
Your loved ones are protected
Your estate avoids unnecessary delays or disputes
Real-world Example: After finalizing her estate plan, Diane placed the binder in a drawer but forgot to sign the documents. A year later, she passed away unexpectedly. Though her wishes were clear in the plan, the unsigned documents were not legally enforceable.
Because the estate plan wasn’t properly executed, her assets had to go through probate, delaying distribution and creating stress for her family.
What You’ll Receive
Your documents will arrive in a custom estate plan binder. Inside the left pocket, you’ll find a set of signature pages—one for each legal document in your plan.
Each signature page includes clear instructions about:
Who must be present (notary, witness, or both)
Any special requirements based on your state’s laws
How to Execute Your Estate Plan
Step 1: Review Each Signature Page
Each page is tailored to your plan and your state. Read the instructions carefully — the requirements may vary depending on the document and your location.
Step 2: Sign in the Presence of Required Parties
Some documents will require (one or both):
A notary public
One or more disinterested witnesses (not a family member, beneficiary, or anyone named in the document)
If your estate plan includes a Living Trust, execution is required for it to be effective. Be sure both spouses (if applicable) sign the trust in front of a notary. The signed trust establishes the official start date of the trust’s existence.
Important: Do not sign any document until you're in front of the notary or witnesses. Signing prematurely can invalidate the document.
Step 3: Store the Originals Safely
Once signed, your estate plan is considered executed.
Place the original signature pages back in the binder
Store the binder in a secure, accessible place (not a safety deposit box unless someone else has access)
At the time of death, the original Trust or Will with wet signatures must be produced to settle the estate
Step-by-Step Uploading Digital Copies (Optional, but Encouraged)
While the original, signed pages are what legally matter, you can upload digital versions for safekeeping:
Log in to the client dashboard
A pop-up will ask if the signature pages have been completed
Click “Upload” and follow the prompts
Upload clear scans or photos of the signature pages
Important: If the system can’t read the QR code, you’ll be prompted to enter the document’s unique ID at the bottom of the page.
Status Indicators
When documents are delivered in the binder but not yet signed, the status underneath the document on dashboard will display:
"Ready to Sign"
Once signature pages are uploaded and the date is entered, the dashboard will show:
"Completed"
Alternative Submission Methods
If you’re unable to upload the signed pages via the dashboard, you can mail photocopies (please do not send originals) to:
Estate Plan Support
410 S University Ave, Provo, UT 84601
Things to Avoid When Executing Documents
Estate planning execution isn’t complicated, but it must be done right. Here’s what not to do:
Don’t delay. Waiting too long to execute the plan can have tragic consequences if something unexpected happens.
Don’t sign without witnesses or a notary. Always wait until everyone required is present.
Don’t overlook your healthcare documents. Health Care Directives include several questions that must be answered before signing the signature page.
Don’t use minors or legal heirs as witnesses. This can invalidate your documents.
If you ever have questions or run into challenges, reach out to your advisor or our support team. We’re here to help ensure everything is completed confidently and correctly.