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A simple guide to writing a will
A simple guide to writing a will

A simple guide to writing a will

Q) Why should I write a Will?

A) Writing a Will is a good idea and is likely to be easier to sort out than you might think. The Citizens Advice Bureau is a good place to get started. Most people think that if they die without a Will their loved ones will decide how their money and possessions are shared out. This is, however, not the case. If you die without a Will (also called intestate), the decision may be out of your family's hands.

Q) But surely my family will benefit?

A) Not necessarily. It is wrong to assume that your husband or wife will automatically receive everything when you die. In fact, by not making a Will you are leaving not only your spouse, but your children and other dependants in a shaky legal position. Looking at it like this, writing instructions for bequests (gifts after your death) can be more of a celebration than a sad duty, especially if you are leaving something to much-loved grandchildren, for example. All in all, a Will can save your family and friends a lot of trouble when it comes to sorting out your things in the event of your death.

Q) Should I use a solicitor?

A) Not everyone does so - professional Will writing companies can write your Will for you if you choose not to use a solicitor. Professional Will writers may be cheaper than a solicitor and can sometimes make home visits to make the process easier. If your situation is complex (if you have an ex-spouse for example), it might be a good idea to use a solicitor. One of the good things about using a solicitor is that they can help you with the tricky language often associated with the law. The language may seem old-fashioned, but its purpose is to make everything crystal clear.

Q) Does it have to be witnessed?

A) Once Wills have been written, they have to be witnessed to be legal. Make sure you choose carefully, as witnesses and their spouses are not allowed to benefit from the Will.

Q) Where should I keep my Will?

A) It might sound obvious, but once you have written your Will, make sure you keep it somewhere safe! You can keep it at home, you could ask whoever writes your Will to keep it on their premises or you can ask the executor of the Will to keep hold of it. If you aren't keeping your Will at home, make sure you keep a note of where it is with your other important papers (for example a list of your bank account numbers and any other SLDAssets you have).

Did you know?

  • If you're living with someone and not married, your partner will NOT automatically receive anything if you die without a Will.
  • Nearly a half of people over 50 have not made a Will.
  • Legacies are a valuable source of income for charities - so if you want to leave something to your favourite charity, include it in your Will.