It is not unusual for a person to have a will properly prepared and signed, and then undermine it later through their own actions. This page explains how to store your will and how to change it correctly.
This page offers general information about Kentucky law, not legal advice. Reading it or contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship; that begins only when we agree in writing to represent you. See our advertising notice.
What Should I Do With My Will After I Sign It?
Keep the original in a safe place where it is unlikely to be damaged or lost, and tell your executor where it is. A fireproof box at home can be a good balance between protection and access. Do not staple, write on, or otherwise alter the signed document.
Should I keep my will in a safe deposit box?
You can, but your family must be able to get to it. Kentucky law lets certain interested persons, such as a surviving spouse, adult child, parent, or a person named as personal representative in a copy of the will, open the box in the presence of a bank employee to search for a will, provided they have a key and proof of death (KRS 286.2-105). Make sure someone you trust knows where the key is.
Can I file my will with the county clerk?
Kentucky formerly allowed a testator to deposit a will with the county clerk, but that statute was repealed in 2019. Ask us about safekeeping options. We can also discuss whether we should keep a copy on file.
Can I Change My Will After It Is Signed?
Yes, and you should if your wishes or circumstances change. But a change is effective only if it is made the way the law requires. In Kentucky, a will may be revoked by a later will or codicil, by another writing signed and witnessed like a will, or by physically destroying it with the intent to revoke (KRS 394.080). A revoked will can be revived only by re-signing it or by a codicil signed with the same formalities as a will (KRS 394.100).
You cannot add to or modify an existing will by writing on it. Handwritten notes, cross-outs, and margin changes are likely to be ineffective and to cause confusion, which can turn into legal fees for your loved ones. A properly drafted and signed codicil, or a new will, shows that a change was deliberate.
How Often Should I Review My Will?
Contact us after a major life event such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, a death in the family, or the purchase of significant property. It is also wise to review your plan every few years, since the law changes. Kentucky made significant changes to several estate laws in 2026.
See also Wills, Marriage, Divorce, and Your Will, and our fee information.
Talk With Us
To get started, complete our secure estate planning intake form, and one of our attorneys will follow up with you. You can also call us at (859) 444-4695 or contact our office. Wolfe & Houlehan PLLC is located at 226 N. Upper St., Lexington, Kentucky 40507.