Without a Will everything’s much harder to sort out. A Will gives you control over what happens to your property, money and possessions following your death. Without one, the assets will be distributed according to the “Intestacy Rules” rules set out by the government. And when you’re recently bereaved, that’s the last thing you want to worry about.
If you’d like to know more about making a Will, download our fact sheet.
If you’d like us to help you make a Will, simply submit our enquiry form and we’ll be in touch to talk it through with you. Over 55? It might even be free!
Often asked...
How much does a Will cost?
We’re all different and your Will needs to reflect that. So it’s difficult to provide a quote without talking to you first. However, a straightforward single Will should cost around £100. If you’re over 55, we may be able to offer you a free Will writing service. Please contact us for more details.
My spouse will inherit everything won’t they?
No. They will probably take any jointly owned assets and personal possessions but will only be entitled to the first £250,000 if you have children or £450,000 if there are no children but other family members still living. In some cases this can result in the survivor having to sell their home to afford to pay out other members of the family.
I have been with my partner for many years – they will get it won’t they?
It’s only married couples that gain recognition under the intestacy rules. A long term partner would not be entitled to benefit, even personal possessions could not be claimed by them. They would have to apply to court for any benefit from your estate. A Will would make all of this clear.
Since the inheritance tax allowance changes by the government, we don’t need to make a Will for tax savings do we?
Wills can still be a very effective tool for inheritance tax planning. They also have a role to play in asset preservation and protection, for example against the remarriage of the surviving spouse and possible disinheriting of children or from erosion by long term care fees if the survivor requires residential care later on in life.
My children are still young – do I need to wait until they are 18?
Making a Will now can protect your children’s future. You can appoint Guardians to ensure that you have chosen the people that will care for them until they reach 18. Otherwise Social Services and the Courts may have to decide. You can also ensure that their inheritance will be looked after by people that you trust to have the children’s best interests at heart.
My family don’t get on – what should I do?
Make a Will! Leaving a clear indication of your wishes can often diffuse potential family arguments. You can choose a strong, possibly even neutral, executor to take control of your estate to ensure your wishes are adhered to.
What’s an executor?
An executor is a person chosen by you to ensure that your wishes are carried out and that your estate is passed to the beneficiaries you have chosen.
