Rhode Island Living Will Template — Print, Sign & File Today

Healthcare decisions and end-of-life wishes

Sales Tax: 7%Notary: $10Witnesses: 1

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LIVING WILL
State of Rhode Island

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], RI [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 Rhode Island advance directive laws (RI Statutes).

DECLARANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____

WITNESS 1: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 2: _____________________ DATE: _____

NOTARY PUBLIC:
State of Rhode Island, County of [COUNTY]
Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__.
Notary Signature: _____________________
    

Where to File Your Living Will in Rhode Island

Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Living Will.

Rhode Island County Clerk

Rhode Island Capital

Main Government Building, Rhode Island

District County Clerk

Rhode Island Metro Area

County Courthouse, RI

Rhode Island Living Will Requirements

Review the following requirements to ensure your Living Will is legally valid in Rhode Island.

Notarization required
1 witness must sign
Vehicle identification number (VIN) required
Odometer disclosure mandatory
Buyer and seller signatures required
Purchase price must be stated
Date of sale required
Blue or black ink only
Electronic signatures accepted
County clerk filing required

Rhode Island Notarization

While notarization may not be required in Rhode Island, it is recommended. Fees range from $10.

Before You Sign

Review all information carefully. In Rhode Island, a 7% sales tax may apply.

Legal Protection

Keep copies of all signed documents. Rhode Island law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.

Rhode Island Filing Deadlines

Check Rhode Island deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.

FAQ: Living Will in Rhode Island

Is a Living Will required in Rhode Island?

Yes, in Rhode Island, a Living Will is required for most transactions of this type. Under Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?

Notarization requirements in Rhode Island (RI) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $10. 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 Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a base sales tax rate of 7%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Living Will, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Rhode Island 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.

SMJ
Reviewed & Fact-Checked

Sarah Mitchell, J.D.

Legal Document Specialist

Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience

Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation

This Living Will template for Rhode Island has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Living Will Costs in Rhode Island

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary Fee$5-$15 (if required)Rhode Island standard rate: $10
Filing FeeVaries by stateState registration (if applicable)
Processing Time1-3 business daysTypical turnaround in Rhode Island
Sales Tax7%Rhode Island base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are Rhode Island-specific estimates. Contact your local office for exact pricing.

Rhode Island Living Will Legal Guide

According to Rhode Island laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Rhode Island law (Rhode Island State Code) governs this Living Will. Key financial considerations include a 7% sales tax rate and notary fees of $10. The document requires 1 witness and remains valid indefinite.

Using this template ensures you're protected under Rhode Island law while saving time and money on legal fees.

healthcare directiveend-of-life decisionsmedical treatmentadvance directivelife supporthealthcare proxy
Navigating Rhode Island's legal landscape for a Living Will doesn't have to be complicated. This guide breaks down everything RI residents need to know — from required fields to filing procedures — so you can complete your document with confidence.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Rhode Island attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with RI law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Rhode Island law changes

Enforceability in Rhode Island

A Living Will that meets all RI requirements is fully enforceable in Rhode Island. Courts in Rhode Island have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.

Your Rhode Island Filing Guide

After downloading, take your time filling in each section. RI statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether Rhode Island requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.

What Rhode Island Law Requires

Rhode Island's statutes are clear: a valid Living Will must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of at least one witness where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under RI law can render the document unenforceable.

Document Information

Document
Living Will
State
Rhode Island (RI)
Category
Estate Planning
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
7%
Notary Fee
$10

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island

Living Will
Last Will
Living Will applies while you're alive
Last Will takes effect after death
Rhode Island requires 1 witness for Living Will
Rhode Island has specific advance directive laws
Comparison based on Rhode Island state law. Requirements may vary by county.

Legal Disclaimer

This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Rhode Island may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.