Living Will in New York
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
New York requires living wills (called Health Care Proxies) to be signed by you and witnessed by two disinterested people.
How New York treats Living Will
New York uses the term 'Health Care Proxy' rather than living will and allows you to appoint an agent to make medical decisions if you cannot. The document must be signed in front of two witnesses who are not your healthcare provider, family member, or anyone with a financial interest in your care. New York also recognizes a separate 'Living Will' form for specific end-of-life wishes, which requires similar witnessing requirements.
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 York.