Free Printable California Living Will & Requirements
Healthcare decisions and end-of-life wishes
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LIVING WILL
State of California
I, [YOUR NAME], being of sound mind, willfully and voluntarily make this Living Will to express my wishes regarding medical treatment.
DECLARANT:
Name: [YOUR NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], CA [ZIP]
Date of Birth: [DOB]
DECLARATION:
If I am unable to make my own medical decisions and am in a terminal condition or permanent unconscious state, I direct that:
1. LIFE-SUSTAINING TREATMENT
[ ] I DO want life-sustaining treatment
[ ] I DO NOT want life-sustaining treatment
2. ARTIFICIAL NUTRITION AND HYDRATION
[ ] I DO want artificial nutrition and hydration
[ ] I DO NOT want artificial nutrition and hydration
3. PAIN MANAGEMENT
I want all measures taken to keep me comfortable and free from pain.
4. ORGAN DONATION
[ ] I wish to donate my organs
[ ] I do not wish to donate my organs
This Living Will complies with California advance directive laws (CA Statutes).
DECLARANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 1: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 2: _____________________ DATE: _____
NOTARY PUBLIC:
State of California, County of [COUNTY]
Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__.
Notary Signature: _____________________
California Living Will Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Living Will is legally valid in California.
California Notarization
While notarization may not be required in California, it is recommended. Fees range from $15.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In California, a 7.25% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. California law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
California Filing Deadlines
Check California deadlines for filing. The state filing fee is $15. Late filing may result in penalties.
Living Will Costs in California
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | California standard rate: $15 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State filing: $15 |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in California |
| Sales Tax | 7.25% | California base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
FAQ: Living Will in California
Is a Living Will required in California?
Yes, in California, a Living Will is required for most transactions of this type. Under California State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Living Will may result in legal complications.
Does a Living Will need to be notarized in California?
Notarization requirements in California (CA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $15. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Living Will in California?
California has a base sales tax rate of 7.25%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Living Will, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a California tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
What is the difference between a living will and a regular will?
A living will addresses medical decisions if you become incapacitated, while a regular will distributes your assets after death. A living will specifies your wishes for life-sustaining treatment, while a will names beneficiaries and an executor.
Do I need witnesses for a living will?
Most states require two witnesses for a living will, and some also require notarization. Witnesses typically cannot be family members, heirs, or your healthcare providers. Check your state's specific requirements for valid execution.
Can I change my living will?
Yes, you can change or revoke your living will at any time while you are mentally competent. You should destroy old copies, create a new document, and provide updated copies to your healthcare providers and designated healthcare agent.
Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.
Estate Planning Attorney
Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience
Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
This Living Will template for California has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Where to File Your Living Will in California
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Living Will.
LA County Clerk
Los Angeles
12400 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650
SF County Clerk
San Francisco
1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl, SF, CA 94102
San Diego County Clerk
San Diego
1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Sacramento County Clerk
Sacramento
600 8th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
California Living Will Legal Guide
This legally binding document in California serves as official proof of transaction and is recognized by courts and government agencies.
California law (California State Code) governs this Living Will. Key financial considerations include a 7.25% sales tax rate and notary fees of $15. The document requires 1 witness and remains valid indefinite.
Ensure your transaction is legally sound in California with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.
How to Complete This Form
Start by gathering all necessary information: party names, addresses, and relevant details specific to your transaction. California law under CA requires accuracy in every field. Once completed, have all parties review the document before signing. Depending on the transaction type, California may require notarization or witness signatures.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Living Will is legally binding in California and enforceable in CA courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. California courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable CA statutes.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
California attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with CA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when California law changes
California Statutory Requirements
The CA legislature has established specific guidelines for living will documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
Once properly executed, your Living Will is legally binding in California and enforceable in CA courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. California courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable CA statutes.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
California attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with CA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when California law changes
California Statutory Requirements
The CA legislature has established specific guidelines for living will documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
The CA legislature has established specific guidelines for living will documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
Other Forms in California
Living Will in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Living Will
- State
- California (CA)
- Category
- Estate Planning
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 7.25%
- Notary Fee
- $15
California Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Advance Directive Law
- ✓Must be in writing and signed
- ✓Witnesses required (typically 2)
- ✓Notarization may be required
- ✓Must be competent when executing
📊 Living Will vs. Last Will and Testament in California
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in California may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.