Does the Probate Office provide safekeeping services?
You can deposit your own will in the Probate vault for safekeeping for a fee of $10. Only the person who wrote the will, or their written designee with the original receipt, can withdraw it. The written designation must be signed by two witnesses. There is an additional fee of $10 each time you replace a will or file a Codicil. To file a Health Care Power of Attorney or Declaration to Physicians (also known as a Living Will), an $8 filing fee is necessary. Be sure to let the person you nominate as your agent know where he or she can find the document. Some people keep duplicate originals or copies in another location that is more accessible to close relatives and friends. The Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups can provide more information about advance directives. The Financial Power of Attorney is filed with the Register of Deeds office.
