How to leave a gift in your Will

Writing or updating your Will doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming. Many people put off writing a Will but getting this important document in order is the best way to ensure your family and friends are cared for. We’ve rounded up some of the most commonly asked questions on Wills below

Frequently asked questions

What is a Will?

A Will is a legal document that sets out what you want to happen to your estate when you die. Every estate will be different, but a basic Will sets out:

Who your beneficiaries are – the people you want to leave your assets to
How you want your assets to be divided up
Who your executors are – the people who will administer your estate according to the terms of the Will.

How do you make a Will?

Our partners, Irwin Mitchell, offer several options to suit you and your needs: you can make a Will online, by post, or in person. They can also advise you on the best way to structure your Will. Once it’s drafted and you’re happy with it, you and two witnesses must sign it to make it legal.

How much does it cost to make a Will?

Making a Will can cost as little as £145 with Irwin Mitchell’s online Will-writing service. Their Wills Assured service also enables you to update your Will for free if you need to change anything. For more complex estates, you may require more tailored advice. You can find a breakdown of fees on Irwin Mitchell’s Will Writing page.

What do you need to consider when making a Will?

Every estate will be different but there are a number of things to bear in mind when writing your Will. These include:

Who do you want to inherit your assets?
Do you need to plan for inheritance tax?
Do you have assets in different countries?
Do you own, or co-own, a business?
Do you need to provide for children from a previous marriage while also providing for a current partner?
Will your partner be able to stay in your home if you die?

Read Irwin Mitchell’s Wills Checklist for more key considerations.

How can I avoid making a mistake when preparing a Will?

It’s always best to involve a solicitor when making or changing your Will. This will ensure your Will covers everything you need and is legally binding.

How do I leave money to charity in my Will?

Leaving money to charity in your Will is a powerful way to support the causes you're most passionate about. Charitable donations can also reduce the amount of tax on your estate. Visit Irwin Mitchell’s website to read frequently asked questions on charity donations.

Do I need a solicitor?

It’s not essential to have a solicitor but it is advisable. By using a solicitor you can also be sure that your Will is valid and won’t be disregarded after your death.

Do I need a Will?

We advise everyone to consider making a Will. If you have anything to pass on, you should make a Will.

What does an executor do?

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.

When do I need to review my Will?

If there’s any change in your circumstances, it’s important to review your Will. This is especially the case for significant life changes, such as:

Marriage or divorce
The birth of children or grandchildren
Significant changes to your financial circumstances.

For further information on Wills head to Irwin Mitchell’s website.