Free Printable Five Wishes PDF Guide (USA) – Looking for a free printable Five Wishes PDF? Five Wishes is America’s most popular advance directive (living will with heart and soul). Created by the nonprofit Aging with Dignity, it helps adults of any age document medical, personal, emotional, and spiritual wishes for care if they become seriously ill and cannot speak for themselves. More than 44 million copies have been distributed. It is written in everyday language, meets legal requirements in most states, and is used nationwide.
This resource page explains what Five Wishes covers, how to obtain a legitimate version, and practical next steps for U.S. readers. Official copies are low-cost rather than completely free in most cases, but free preview samples and partner distributions are available.
What Is Five Wishes?
Five Wishes combines a health care power of attorney and living will while also addressing comfort, dignity, and messages for loved ones. It was developed with input from medical experts and the American Bar Association’s Commission on Law & Aging. Once properly completed, signed, and witnessed (following the instructions for your state), it is a legal document in the majority of U.S. states and is widely honored.
The five sections are:
- Wish 1: The person I want to make care decisions for me when I can’t (health care agent/proxy).
- Wish 2: The kind of medical treatment I want or don’t want (living will portion, covering life-support scenarios).
- Wish 3: How comfortable I want to be.
- Wish 4: How I want people to treat me.
- Wish 5: What I want my loved ones to know.
It is available in dozens of languages plus Braille and works for adults 18 and older.
How to Get a Legitimate Five Wishes Document?
The official source is Aging with Dignity / Five Wishes. Paper booklets cost $5 each (the same price for decades; bulk discounts apply). A digital version that lets you complete, sign, and revise online costs more. These are the authoritative, up-to-date versions that include state-specific guidance.
Visit the official site to order paper or digital versions:
https://www.fivewishes.org/
You can also learn more about the program at the parent organization:
https://agingwithdignity.org/five-wishes/
A free sample PDF (watermarked “SAMPLE” and intended for review only—not for official use) is available from official materials. Review it to understand the format and questions before ordering:
Five Wishes Sample PDF
Many hospitals, hospices, senior centers, faith communities, and employers distribute free or low-cost paper copies as a community service. Contact local providers and ask whether they offer complimentary Five Wishes booklets. Some organizations, such as certain hospice foundations, periodically provide free paper copies (shipping may apply) or guidance on the online process.
Note: Unofficial “free printable Five Wishes PDF” downloads found on random websites are often outdated, incomplete, or unauthorized. Stick to official or verified partner sources to ensure legal validity and current content.
Free Printable Five Wishes PDF Guide (USA)
Completing and Using Your Five Wishes
- Review the document carefully (use the sample first if helpful).
- Choose your health care agent thoughtfully—someone who knows you well, can advocate for you, and is willing to serve.
- Fill out each wish. You can check boxes, cross out items you do not want, or write additional instructions.
- Sign and have it witnessed according to the instructions (requirements vary slightly by state; a few states need an extra state form).
- Share copies with your agent, family members, and doctors. Keep the original accessible. Consider uploading a scanned copy to a free advance directive registry if available.
- Review and update as needed after major life changes.
Talking through the document with loved ones is often as valuable as completing it. Free instructional videos and conversation tips are available on the official Five Wishes site.
Important Legal Notes for USA Readers
Five Wishes is designed to meet requirements in most states. A small number of states (historically including places such as New Hampshire, Kansas, Ohio, or Texas in earlier guidance) may require an additional state-specific form or wording. Always check the current instructions inside the official document or on the Five Wishes website for your state. Federal law requires health care providers to honor expressed patient wishes. This is not legal advice—consult an attorney if your situation is complex.
FAQ
Is there a completely free printable official Five Wishes PDF?
A free sample/preview PDF exists for review. Full official paper copies are $5; digital is higher. Free paper copies are often available through local hospices, hospitals, or partner organizations.
Can I just print any online version?
Only use the official sample for preview or an authorized copy. Unauthorized versions may not be current or legally sufficient.
Does it replace a will or power of attorney for finances?
No. Five Wishes focuses on health care and personal care preferences. Separate documents handle finances and property.
Where can I get help filling it out?
Use the free instructional resources on the official site, talk with your doctor or a social worker, or attend a local advance care planning workshop.
Completing an advance directive like Five Wishes gives you and your family clarity and peace of mind. Start with the official sample and site, then obtain a full legitimate copy through Five Wishes or a trusted local partner. For the most current ordering, state notes, and resources, go directly to the official Five Wishes website.