Do both witnesses need to be present at the same time?

Yes, both witnesses must be present at the same time when you sign your will. This is a legal requirement for a valid will in England and Wales.

The correct process is:

1. You sign the will in the presence of both witnesses (or acknowledge your existing signature to them)
2. Both witnesses then sign the will while you and each other are present
3. All three people (you and both witnesses) must be in the same room at the same time during the signing

Important rules about witnesses:

• Both must be 18 or over
• Both must actually see you sign (or hear you acknowledge your signature)
• Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries in your will
• Witnesses cannot be married to or in civil partnership with beneficiaries
• If a beneficiary witnesses, they lose their inheritance (but the will remains valid)

Choose witnesses carefully - good options are neighbors, work colleagues, or friends who are not beneficiaries in your will. You don't need a solicitor or anyone official - any two adults who aren't benefiting from your will can witness it.