Making a Will

You do not have to make a will but there are important reasons why you should consider doing so:

• you can decide how your assets are shared. If there is no will, the law decides.
• if you are an unmarried couple you can make sure your partner is provided for.
• if you are divorced you can decide whether to leave anything to your former partner.
• you can ensure that your estate does not pay more Inheritance Tax than necessary.
• you can arrange to leave a gift to charity.
  

It is possible to write a will by yourself but using the help of a solicitor or certain voluntary organisations, such as Citizens Advice Bureau or Age UK, can ensure that your will follows legal requirements and is valid.

Solicitors will make a charge for writing a will. The amount will vary between solicitors. A solicitor may be able to visit you in your home, care home, hospital or hospice.

Contacts

Review date: November 2013