Making or Writing a Will 

This is the process of setting out what should happen to your money, property, and personal belongings after you pass away. It allows you to decide who benefits from your estate, rather than leaving those decisions to be made by law. A properly drafted Will can also appoint executors (the people responsible for carrying out your wishes) and set out any specific instructions, such as funeral preferences or gifts of personal items.

Common mistakes in a Will - a valid Will must meet certain legal requirements. The golden rules are that it needs to be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two independent adults who are not beneficiaries. If these rules are not followed, the Will may not be legally valid.

A professional will talk to you about your assets, your inheritance tax position, discuss any concerns you may have and tailor your Will to your personal circumstances.  If your needs are simple, a consultation can take as little as an hour of your time, can be done over the phone or via video call and then the final document can be ready and delivered in a matter of a couple of days. 

Making a Will is not just for later life. Young people may also need Wills and then changes in circumstances, such as buying a home, having children, or entering a long-term relationship, can all make having a Will reviewed essential. It ensures that your wishes are clear and reduces the likelihood of confusion or disputes after your death.

Keeping it up to date ensures that it continues to do what it was designed to do which is to provide for your loved ones and provide clarity when it matters most.

➡️ Next, it’s worth understanding the Cost of a Will and what influences it.