Pennsylvania Probate Form RW-04

Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es)

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Forms and requirements change frequently — verify the current version with your local probate court or an attorney.

Last updated: June 27, 2026

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About Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es)

Establishes the authenticity of a decedent's signature on a will or codicil through sworn testimony of non-subscribing witnesses familiar with the decedent's handwriting.

When you'd use it: File when a will or codicil lacks the required number of subscribing witnesses or when their testimony is unavailable, to authenticate the document through witnesses who knew the decedent's signature but did not sign the will.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) is published as a PDF by the Pennsylvania courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:

Verified official PDF

Download Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) (PDF) →

Source: mckeancountypa.gov

Link last checked: June 27, 2026

How to file Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) in Pennsylvania

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) (RW-04) when file when a will or codicil lacks the required number of subscribing witnesses or when their testimony is unavailable, to authenticate the document through witnesses who knew the decedent's signature but did not sign the will. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — Pennsylvania probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
  2. Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
  3. Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
  4. Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the Pennsylvania county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es)? SwiftProbate builds a personalized, step-by-step checklist for settling the estate — so you know which forms to file, in what order, and by when.

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Probate in Pennsylvania

See the full Pennsylvania probate guide for filing deadlines, small-estate options, timelines, costs, and county courthouse details.

Read the Pennsylvania probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) (RW-04)?
Establishes the authenticity of a decedent's signature on a will or codicil through sworn testimony of non-subscribing witnesses familiar with the decedent's handwriting. You'd typically use it when file when a will or codicil lacks the required number of subscribing witnesses or when their testimony is unavailable, to authenticate the document through witnesses who knew the decedent's signature but did not sign the will.
Where do I file Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) in Pennsylvania?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the Pennsylvania county where the deceased person lived. Our Pennsylvania probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es)?
Many people complete probate forms themselves, especially for smaller or uncontested estates. Complex estates may benefit from professional advice. SwiftProbate is an informational tool that helps you understand and organize the process — it is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Is Oath of Non-subscribing Witness(es) available online?
Most Pennsylvania probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other Pennsylvania Probate Forms

Citation and Preliminary DecreeNotice of Intention to Appeal From RegisterRW-6InventoryRW-09CERTIFICATION OF NOTICE UNDER Pa. O.C. Rule 10.5RW-08

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate forms and requirements vary by state, county, and individual circumstances, and change over time. Always verify the current form and instructions with your local probate court, and consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. SwiftProbate is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation.