Living Will in New Hampshire
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
New Hampshire recognizes living wills but requires two witnesses and does not allow notarization as an alternative.
How New Hampshire treats Living Will
New Hampshire requires living wills to be signed by you and witnessed by two people who are not your healthcare provider, not related to you by blood or marriage, and not entitled to inherit from you. The state allows you to refuse any life-sustaining treatment, including artificial nutrition and hydration. New Hampshire does not accept notarization alone as a substitute for witnesses, making the two-witness requirement mandatory.
The general definition of Living Will
A document stating your wishes about life-sustaining medical treatment if you become unable to communicate.
A living will (also called an advance directive) is a written statement of your medical preferences if you're ever in a coma, terminal illness, or unable to speak for yourself. You can specify whether you want life support, feeding tubes, or resuscitation. Doctors and family members use it to make decisions that honor your values when you cannot.
Read the full Living Will entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in New Hampshire.