Official Pennsylvania Living Will Form | Step-by-Step Guide
Healthcare decisions and end-of-life wishes
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LIVING WILL
State of Pennsylvania
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], PA [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 Pennsylvania advance directive laws (PA Statutes).
DECLARANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 1: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 2: _____________________ DATE: _____
NOTARY PUBLIC:
State of Pennsylvania, County of [COUNTY]
Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__.
Notary Signature: _____________________
FAQ: Living Will in Pennsylvania
Is a Living Will required in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, a Living Will is required for most transactions of this type. Under Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Notarization requirements in Pennsylvania (PA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $5. 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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Living Will, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Pennsylvania 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.
Michael Chen, Esq.
Real Estate Law Consultant
Bar Certified, Real Estate Expert
Expert in property transactions and real estate documentation
This Living Will template for Pennsylvania has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Where to File Your Living Will in Pennsylvania
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Living Will.
Philadelphia County Clerk
Philadelphia
City Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Allegheny County Clerk
Pittsburgh
436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dauphin County Clerk
Harrisburg
101 Market St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Pennsylvania Living Will Legal Guide
According to Pennsylvania laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
For Pennsylvania (PA) residents, this Living Will is governed by Pennsylvania State Code. Important details: sales tax at 6%, notary costs of $5, and a requirement for 1 witness. The document has indefinite validity once properly executed.
Using this template ensures you're protected under Pennsylvania law while saving time and money on legal fees.
Your Pennsylvania Filing Guide
After downloading, take your time filling in each section. PA statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether Pennsylvania requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Living Will is legally binding in Pennsylvania and enforceable in PA courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Pennsylvania courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable PA statutes.
Expert Recommendations
Legal professionals in Pennsylvania recommend:
- Always use a state-specific template compliant with PA statutes
- Have documents reviewed before signing high-value agreements
- File copies with the appropriate Pennsylvania government office when required
- Update your documents annually to reflect any changes in PA law
Legal Standards in Pennsylvania
Under PA state code, your Living Will must contain several mandatory elements. Pennsylvania courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Once properly executed, your Living Will is legally binding in Pennsylvania and enforceable in PA courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Pennsylvania courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable PA statutes.
Expert Recommendations
Legal professionals in Pennsylvania recommend:
- Always use a state-specific template compliant with PA statutes
- Have documents reviewed before signing high-value agreements
- File copies with the appropriate Pennsylvania government office when required
- Update your documents annually to reflect any changes in PA law
Legal Standards in Pennsylvania
Under PA state code, your Living Will must contain several mandatory elements. Pennsylvania courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Under PA state code, your Living Will must contain several mandatory elements. Pennsylvania courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Living Will Costs in Pennsylvania
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Pennsylvania standard rate: $5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Pennsylvania |
| Sales Tax | 6% | Pennsylvania base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Pennsylvania Living Will Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Living Will is legally valid in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Pennsylvania, it is recommended. Fees range from $5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Pennsylvania, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Pennsylvania law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Pennsylvania Filing Deadlines
Check Pennsylvania deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Other Forms in Pennsylvania
Living Will in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Living Will
- State
- Pennsylvania (PA)
- Category
- Estate Planning
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $5
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Pennsylvania may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.