How to leave a gift in your Will

A Will is a legal document that lets you decide what happens to your money, property, and possessions (your ‘estate’) after your death. It allows you to clearly set out your wishes and decide who should act as the executor of your Will.

With effective planning, a Will can also make sure that your loved ones are provided for in the most tax-efficient way.

If you don’t make a Will, the law will divide your estate according to what’s known as the rules of intestacy. These rules are very fixed and may not reflect what you’d like to happen to your money, or what’s most tax efficient.

If you want to write or update a Will, it’s always best to seek guidance from a solicitor. They will ensure that your Will covers everything you need and is legally binding.

You should review your Will every five years or so, or after any major life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, the birth of a grandchild, reaching retirement, illness or receiving an inheritance.

If you would like to make changes to your Will, it is recommended that you seek advice from a professional to ensure your final wishes can be carried out. There is a risk that changes made without professional assistance may not be legally valid.

Our legal partners can guide you through every step of the Will-writing process. For costs involved and more information, visit this page.

Whilst we have partnerships with Irwin Mitchell and Wake Smith Solicitors, you are welcome to write your Will with any legal provider.

The executor is the person (or people) who administers your estate after your death. They’re in charge of paying any debts, collecting the value of the estate (i.e. selling property) and distributing the inheritance to beneficiaries. Your Will should set out any procedures that they may need to follow.

There are several ways in which you can remember a charity in your Will. Every donation – no matter how big or small – helps to change and save lives.

• Residuary: This is a share of your estate (for example 20%) after all other payments or gifts have been made. 
• Pecuniary gifts: A pecuniary gift is a specific sum of money, for example £2,000. 
• Specific gifts: A gift of a particular named item, such as a piece of jewellery or art.

Unfortunately, we cannot assist with Will-writing as we are not legally qualified to do so. You will need to write your Will with a solicitor who can also advise you on inheritance tax.

However, if you have any questions and would like an informal chat with our team, before starting the Will-writing process, we’re here to help. Please contact our Legacy and In Memory Fundraising Manager, Melissa, via email at legacy@wpcancercharity.org.uk or call 07496 964575 for an informal chat.