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The Complete Guide to Wills in the UK

Whether you're writing your first Will, updating an existing one, or simply exploring your options, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Wills in the UK. Use the links below to navigate key topics quickly.

Contents:

• What Is a Will?
• Different Ways to Make a Will
• Types of Wills
• Trusts and Wills: What’s the Difference?
• Who Should Be Thinking About a Will?
• What Can You Include in a Will?
• How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?
• Solicitors vs. Will Writers
• Is My Will Legal and Valid?
• Mistakes and Things to Avoid
• When and Why Should You Update Your Will?
• Advice and Help with Wills
• FAQs About Wills
• Glossary of Terms

1. What Is a Will?

2. Different Ways to Make a Will

3. Types of Wills

4. Trusts and Wills: What’s the Difference?

5. Who Should Be Thinking About a Will?

6. What Can You Include in a Will?

7. How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?

8. Solicitors vs. Will Writers

9. Is My Will Legal and Valid?

10. Mistakes and Things to Avoid

11. When and Why Should You Update Your Will?

12. Advice and Help with Wills

13. FAQs About Wills

14. Glossary of Terms

A Will is the foundation of any estate plan, but there are still a lot of misconceptions about what it actually does - and who it’s for. In this section, we explain what a Will is, why it matters, and who should seriously consider having one, even if you don’t think you fit the “typical” profile.

What is a Will and why does it matter?

A Will (also known as a Last Will and Testament) is a legal document that outlines your wishes for what should happen to your money, property, possessions and dependants after you die. It gives you control over how your estate is managed and ensures that the people you care about are provided for in the way you choose.

 Having a valid Will can help avoid unnecessary delays, disputes, or confusion. It also offers peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are organised and your loved ones are supported during a difficult time.

What happens if you die without a Will?

If you die without a Will in the UK, you are considered to have died intestate. This means that the law decides how your estate is divided, regardless of your personal wishes or relationships. For example, unmarried partners, close friends or stepchildren may receive nothing, even if they were a big part of your life. 

Intestacy can also make the probate process more complex and stressful for your family. Writing a Will allows you to avoid this, helping your estate to be handled smoothly and fairly.

Who should have a Will?

It’s a common myth that Wills are only for older people or those with large estates. In reality, anyone over 18 who has assets, dependants, or clear wishes about what happens after they die should consider making a Will. 

You should especially think about it if you:

• Own a property 
• Have children or other dependants 
• Have savings, investments or valuable personal belongings 
• Are married, divorced or in a long-term relationship 
• Run a business or have business interests 
• Want to leave a gift to a charity or specific individual
  

There are several ways to create a valid Will in the UK. You can write one yourself, use an online service, purchase a DIY kit, or work with a professional Will writer or solicitor. The right option for you will depend on your circumstances, how complex your wishes are, and how confident you feel about the legal requirements.

Whatever route you choose, your Will must meet legal standards to be considered valid - otherwise it may be challenged or disregarded after your death.

Do I need a Will if I’m young, single, renting or don’t have kids?

Yes. Even if you don't own a home or have children, a Will gives you the chance to decide what happens to your belongings and to express any wishes you may have. For instance, you might want to: 

• Leave personal items or money to a friend or relative 
• Choose someone you trust to handle your affairs 
• Make a request about your funeral 
• Protect access to digital accounts or social media profiles 
  

There are several ways to create a legally binding Will in the UK - from solicitor services to DIY kits and online platforms. Each option has its pros and cons depending on your needs, budget and complexity. This section breaks down the common methods and what to watch out for.

Getting a Will made professionally vs doing it yourself

Many people choose to use a solicitor or specialist Will writer to help draft their Will. This is often the best choice if:

• You have a complex estate
• You own property abroad
• You have business assets
• You have children from a previous relationship
  
• You want to set up trusts or inheritance tax planning
  
• You want peace of mind that everything is legally sound

Online Will services in the UK: are they legal and secure?

Yes. Online Will-writing services in the UK are legal, as long as the final document meets all legal requirements. Many online providers guide you through a step-by-step form, then produce a Will for you to download or have printed and posted. You’ll usually need to sign it in front of witnesses to make it legally valid. 

Online services can be a good option if:

• Your estate and wishes are straightforward
  
• You prefer a digital process
  
• You’re looking for a quick and affordable solution
  

DIY Will kits: pros, cons and risks

However, not all platforms are the same. Look for providers with clear guidance, UK-specific legal coverage, data protection, and access to customer support. Some services also offer legal checking or expert review for added peace of mind. 

Creating a Will while you're young also makes it easier to keep everything up to date as your circumstances change. It’s about being prepared and taking control. 

A professionally drafted Will is typically more robust and tailored to your needs. It can also help reduce the risk of errors or legal challenges later on. 

Writing a Will yourself may seem quicker or cheaper, but it carries more risk. If your Will isn’t clear, complete, or legally valid, it may be open to disputes - or fail entirely.

DIY Will kits are often available from shops, online retailers or even the Post Office. These allow you to fill in a pre-made form, usually with a simple layout and basic instructions.

Pros:

• Low cost 
• Immediate access 
• Good for very simple wishes 
  

DIY kits are best suited to people with very straightforward needs - for example, leaving everything to one person with no complications. If your situation is more involved, or if you’re unsure about how to fill out the form properly, professional help is usually a better route.

Cons:

• Easy to make legal or structural mistakes
• Less guidance or customisation
• Can be challenged if unclear or invalid
  

Will writing templates, kits and formats

Some people try to create a Will using free templates found online or in legal books. While it’s possible to write a Will this way, you must be cautious. Templates may not reflect UK law or may miss essential clauses. 

If you choose this option, make sure:

• The format is valid under UK law 
• It includes clear instructions for signing and witnessing 
• You understand all the legal terms used 
• You double-check everything for errors or ambiguity
  

Even minor mistakes in structure or language can lead to confusion or rejection during probate.

Making a Will from home (including Post Office kits and home Will kits)

Making a Will from home is a popular choice, especially for those who prefer to avoid legal appointments. Options include:

• Ordering a Will kit by post
• Downloading templates
• Using an online Will-writing service
• Writing your own from scratch
  

Post Office and stationery shop kits are simple and affordable, but come with higher risk if not completed correctly. Online Will services that offer guidance and optional reviews tend to provide a safer middle ground for home-based Wills. 

Whatever method you use at home, make sure to:

• Sign your Will in front of two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries
• Store the signed document safely
• Tell someone you trust where it’s kept
  

Making a Will from home is increasingly common, but still requires care and attention to get right.

Not all Wills are the same. The right one for you depends on your situation - whether you’re writing a Will as an individual, with a partner, or managing future health or care preferences. This section explains the most common types of Wills used in the UK and who they’re suited to.

The terms “Simple Will” and “Basic Will” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a straightforward Will that sets out who should inherit your estate and who will act as your executor.

These types of Wills are usually suitable if:

This is the most common and widely understood form of Will. It becomes active only after your death, unlike other legal documents like Power of Attorney, which apply during your lifetime.

Simple Wills vs Basic Wills

A Simple or Basic Will may be all you need if your situation is clear-cut, but even then, it’s important to ensure everything is written correctly and legally valid.

A Last Will and Testament is the full legal name for a standard Will. It typically covers:

• You have a small or uncomplicated estate
• You want to leave everything to one person or a few named individuals
• You have no children from previous relationships
• You don’t need to set up any trusts or tax planning
  

Last Will and Testament: what it covers

Mirror Wills: what they are, how they work, and who they suit

Joint Wills and Mutual Wills: differences and dangers

Living Wills (Advance Decisions)

What is a Trust Will?

• Who will inherit your assets (money, property, possessions)
• Who will look after your children (if under 18)
• Who you want to carry out your wishes (executors)
• Any specific gifts or donations to individuals or charities
• Your funeral wishes (optional, but commonly included)
  

Mirror Wills are two almost identical Wills made by a couple, usually spouses or partners. Each person leaves their estate to the other and often the same secondary beneficiaries (like children) if both pass away. 

They are:

• Common for married or cohabiting couples
• Cost-effective when created together
• Easy to set up if wishes are the same
  

However, they are not legally linked. Either person can change their Will later without telling the other. If you need more control or want to protect your assets long-term, a Trust Will may be more appropriate.

Joint Wills and Mutual Wills are far less common and can cause confusion.

• A Joint Will is a single document for two people. It is rarely used today because it complicates matters after one person dies.
  
  
• Mutual Wills are two separate Wills, but both parties agree not to change them without the other's consent, even after death.
  

These types of Wills can create legal issues and limit flexibility. In most modern cases, Mirror Wills or separate individual Wills are a safer and more practical choice.

A Living Will, officially known as an Advance Decision in the UK, is different from a Last Will and Testament. It lets you set out your wishes regarding medical treatment if you become unable to communicate or make decisions in future.

A Living Will covers things like:

• Refusing life-sustaining treatment
• Declining specific procedures or interventions
• Making end-of-life care choices clear
  

It is legally binding if properly written and signed, but it only applies while you are alive. It does not deal with inheritance or estate matters.

A Trust Will includes one or more trusts to manage how assets are passed on. This type of Will is often used to:

Trust Wills can be highly effective for asset protection and long-term planning, but they are more complex to draft. It’s strongly advised to get professional help if you are considering including a trust in your Will.

• Protect money for children until they reach a certain age
• Provide income for a spouse while preserving capital for children
• Ring-fence assets from care home fees or remarriage
• Plan more effectively for inheritance tax
  

Wills and Trusts both help manage what happens to your assets, but they work in different ways. A Will takes effect after you die, while certain types of Trusts can start while you're still alive. Depending on your circumstances, you might benefit from using both.

A Trust Will is a type of Will that sets up one or more Trusts to manage parts of your estate after you die. It only comes into effect once the Will is executed.

By contrast, a Living Trust (also known as an ‘inter vivos trust’) is created and active while you’re still alive. You place specific assets into the Trust, which are then managed by trustees according to the terms you set.

Key differences:

Trust Will vs Living Trust

Wills for couples (married, in a relationship, or civil partners)

Living Will vs Living Trust

When do you need both a Will and a Trust?

Using Trusts for asset protection and planning

Wills for homeowners vs. renters

Wills for parents with children (including unborn or stepchildren)

• Trust Will – activated after death, written into your Will
  
  
• Living Trust – set up during your lifetime, often used for long-term planning
  

Living Trusts are less common in the UK than in countries like the US, but they can still be useful in more complex estate planning situations.

These terms sound similar but are completely different.

A Living Will deals with health decisions – not money or property. A Living Trust manages financial assets and may help reduce probate or tax issues.

Your Will can outline general wishes and deal with your full estate, while specific trusts can handle things like property, business assets, or gifts to children with more control.

Trusts can help you:

You may want both if:

• A Living Will (Advance Decision) sets out your medical treatment wishes if you lose capacity
  
  
• A Living Trust holds and manages assets while you are still alive
  

• You want to control how and when certain assets are passed on
• You have young children or vulnerable beneficiaries
• You’re concerned about inheritance tax or care costs
• You want to avoid probate delays or disputes
  

• Delay inheritance until beneficiaries reach a certain age
• Protect assets from divorce, creditors, or future claims
• Provide income for someone (e.g. a spouse) while preserving capital for someone else (e.g. children from a previous marriage)
• Manage inheritance tax more efficiently
  

They are often used by families who want more control, flexibility, or privacy. However, Trusts can be legally complex, so professional advice is essential to set them up properly.

Many people assume Wills are only necessary later in life or if you have significant wealth. In reality, having a Will matters at every stage - regardless of your age, relationship status or property ownership. This section looks at different life situations and why having a Will is still important, even if your circumstances seem straightforward.

If you own a home, a Will is essential to decide what happens to that property when you die. This includes deciding who inherits it, how it should be divided (if at all), and how any outstanding mortgage or debt should be handled.

Even if you rent, you may still have savings, possessions, insurance policies or digital assets that need to be passed on. A Will ensures those things go to the right people.

Being in a long-term relationship doesn’t automatically give your partner legal rights to your estate unless you’re married or in a civil partnership. A Will allows you to:

• Ensure your partner is looked after
• Decide how to divide your estate if you have children (from current or past relationships)
• Appoint each other as executors
  

Couples often choose a Mirror Will, which reflects identical wishes in two separate documents, but other types may be better depending on your situation.

If you have children, a Will lets you appoint legal guardians and set out how you’d like your estate to be used for their care and upbringing. This is especially important if:

Without a Will, there’s no guarantee that your children will be looked after by the person you would have chosen.

• You're a single parent
• You have children from previous relationships
• You want to include stepchildren or unborn children in your estate
  

Writing a Will if you're single or don’t have dependents

Wills for those over 50 / over 65

Cost of making a Will professionally

Even if you’re not married and don’t have children, your estate still has to go somewhere. A Will allows you to:

• Choose which friends or relatives inherit what
• Make funeral or personal wishes clear
• Leave gifts or donations to charity
• Appoint someone to manage your affairs
  

It also avoids confusion or conflict among loved ones who may otherwise be unsure of your preferences.

Later life often brings more complexity - from pensions and property to long-term care and family considerations. If you're over 50, it’s strongly recommended to:

It’s also an ideal time to seek professional advice to ensure your wishes are protected.

• Review any existing Will
• Plan for Inheritance Tax or trusts
• Address health or care-related decisions (e.g. Living Wills or Powers of Attorney)
• Make sure your Will reflects your current family and financial situation
  

A Will lets you decide exactly what happens to your estate after you die. This section outlines the common types of assets and wishes you can include, helping you create a comprehensive plan that reflects your personal circumstances.

Property and savings
You can specify who inherits your home, other property, savings accounts, investments, and any other financial assets. This includes deciding if property should be sold and proceeds shared, or passed directly to beneficiaries. 

Children and guardianship
If you have children under 18, a Will lets you appoint legal guardians to care for them. This is one of the most important reasons many people create a Will - it ensures your children are looked after by people you trust if something happens to you. 

Business ownership or shares
If you own a business or shares in a company, you can include instructions on how these should be handled. This might include passing ownership to a family member, selling the business, or managing shares through a trust. 

Pets: who will look after them? 
Many people choose to include their pets in their Will by naming someone to care for them and providing funds for their upkeep. While pets are not legal beneficiaries, a Will can set out your wishes clearly.
Digital assets (online accounts, cryptocurrency, etc.) 

Your digital life also needs planning.
This includes social media accounts, email, online banking, cryptocurrencies and digital files. You can appoint someone to manage these assets and provide access instructions in your Will. 

Personal possessions
You can leave specific items like jewellery, heirlooms, artwork or other sentimental belongings to named individuals. Clear instructions help avoid family disagreements over treasured items. 

Donations to charity
A Will allows you to leave gifts or a percentage of your estate to one or more charities. This can be a meaningful way to support causes important to you after you’re gone. 

Funeral wishes
Although not legally binding, many people include funeral preferences in their Will. This can cover burial or cremation, type of service, and any special requests you want your family to know about.

The cost of making a Will can vary widely depending on the complexity of your estate and the method you choose. This section breaks down typical costs and factors that affect pricing, helping you budget for your Will with confidence.

Cheapest way to make a Will

Using a solicitor or specialist Will writer is often the safest option for complex estates. Professional fees typically range from £150 to £500 for a straightforward Will. More complex Wills, including trusts or business interests, may cost significantly more.

Cost of a Mirror Will

Mirror Wills, created for couples with similar wishes, usually cost slightly less than two separate Wills. Expect to pay between £200 and £600 for a pair, depending on complexity and provider.

Cost of DIY Will kits

The least expensive methods include DIY kits or online Will-writing services, which can cost from as little as £20 up to around £100. While budget-friendly, these options may not suit everyone, especially if your estate has complications.

Free Will services (e.g. Free Wills Month – October & March)

Some charities run Free Wills Month campaigns, typically in October and March, offering free basic Wills in exchange for a charitable donation or pledge. These can be a good option for simple estates, but usually do not cover complex needs.

What affects the cost of a Will?

Several factors influence Will-writing fees, including:

DIY kits from shops or online typically cost between £10 and £40. They offer a low-cost way to draft a simple Will, but carry risks if you make errors or omissions. If your situation is complex, professional advice is recommended.

• Complexity of your estate and wishes
• Number of beneficiaries
• Inclusion of trusts or tax planning
• Whether property or business interests are involved
• Whether the Will covers multiple people (e.g. couples)
• The experience and location of the solicitor or service

Choosing the right professional to help with your Will is important. This section explains the differences between solicitors and Will writers, how they work, and what to expect in terms of service and cost.

Local solicitors typically offer in-person consultations and a high level of personal service, while online Will services provide a digital, often cheaper alternative. Online platforms can be convenient for straightforward Wills but may lack personalised advice. Choosing depends on your comfort with technology, complexity of your estate, and budget.

Solicitors specialising in wills and probate offer expert legal advice and tailored services. They can handle complex estates, trusts, and inheritance tax planning. You’ll usually meet face-to-face or arrange a phone consultation. Local solicitors often provide personalised support and help ensure your Will is legally watertight.

Local Will writing services offer face-to-face contact and local knowledge but can be pricier. The best online providers combine ease of use with expert legal input and secure document storage, often at lower prices. Check reviews, guarantees, and UK-specific compliance when choosing an online service.

Generally, yes. Solicitors often charge higher fees because they offer comprehensive legal advice and handle more complicated cases. However, this can be worthwhile if you have a complex estate or want reassurance your Will is fully valid and tailored to your needs.

To be legally binding, a Will must meet specific requirements in the UK. This section explains what makes a Will valid, how to correctly witness it, and common pitfalls that can invalidate your Will.

Costs vary but expect to pay between £150 and £500 for a simple Will. More complex Wills involving trusts, business assets, or tax planning may cost £1,000 or more. Some solicitors offer fixed fees or packages, so it’s worth shopping around.

Will writing solicitors near me: how they work

Local solicitors for Wills vs online Will services

Are solicitors more expensive for making Wills?

For a Will to be valid, it must be:

How much does it cost to make a Will with a solicitor in the UK?

Will writing services near me vs best online providers

Legal requirements for a valid Will in the UK

• Made by a person aged 18 or over
• Made voluntarily, without pressure or undue influence
• In writing (typed or handwritten)
• Signed by the person making the Will (the testator) or by someone else at their direction
• Signed in the presence of two independent witnesses who also sign

What is required for a Will to be valid?

The key elements are:

• Clear intention to make the document a Will
• Testator’s signature at the end of the document
• Two witnesses present at the same time when the testator signs or acknowledges the signature
• Witnesses must be adults and not beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries

Who can witness a Will?

Witnesses must be:

• Over 18 years old
• Of sound mind
• Independent (not named in the Will or married to a beneficiary)

Choosing witnesses who stand to benefit from the Will can invalidate gifts made to them.

What can invalidate your Will?

Common reasons include:

• Improper signing or witnessing
• Coercion or undue influence when making the Will
• Lack of mental capacity
• Making changes without properly signing codicils
• Witnesses who are beneficiaries
• Ambiguous or contradictory wording

Do Wills need to be registered in the UK?

No. There is no legal requirement to register a Will in the UK. However, some choose to store their Will with a solicitor, Will writing service, or at the Principal Registry of the Family Division for safekeeping. Registering does not guarantee the Will will be found after death, so informing trusted people of its location is important.

What you should never put in your Will

Avoid including:

8 things not to put in your Will

Verbal promises or side agreements
Instructions for funeral arrangements that contradict other documents
Property held jointly (as it usually passes automatically)
Gifts that rely on uncertain events (e.g. “if X happens”)
Personal opinions or messages to family members
Any document that isn’t properly signed and witnessed
Digital account passwords (better handled with a separate letter)
Disinheritance without clear reasons (can increase risk of challenges)

When Wills are contested (and how to avoid it)

Typical mistakes include:

Common errors that lead to disputes

Wills can be challenged in court if someone believes it was made under duress, the testator lacked capacity, or was influenced unfairly. Disputes can also arise over unclear wording or excluded family members. 

To reduce risk:

Legal advice on Wills: where to get it

A Will should reflect your current wishes and circumstances. This section outlines common life events that mean it’s important to review and update your Will regularly to keep it valid and relevant.

After getting married or divorced 
Marriage usually revokes a Will unless it states otherwise, so a new Will is essential after marriage. Divorce does not automatically cancel a Will, but it often changes your intentions, making an update necessary to remove or replace ex-spouses.

After buying a home 
If you purchase property, your Will should be updated to include it and specify who inherits it. This avoids intestacy or unintended distribution of your estate.

After having children 
Having children or stepchildren is a major reason to update your Will. It allows you to appoint guardians, allocate inheritance, and protect their future.

When your health changes 
If you experience serious illness or diminished capacity, updating your Will ensures your wishes remain clear and valid. It may also be time to consider related documents like Powers of Attorney or Living Wills.

If someone named in the Will passes away
If a beneficiary or executor dies before you, you should update your Will to name replacements and avoid confusion after your death.
 
After major life or financial events
Significant changes like starting or selling a business, receiving an inheritance, or changing marital status should trigger a Will review to ensure your estate plan reflects your new situation.

Creating a Will is a serious task, and certain errors can cause confusion, disputes or even invalidate your wishes. This section highlights what to avoid when writing your Will to ensure it stands up legally and reflects your true intentions.

• Instructions that are illegal or impossible to carry out
• Conditions that are vague or open to interpretation
• Gifts to people who are already excluded by law (e.g. certain ex-spouses without legal grounds)
• Details that should be handled separately, such as life insurance policies or jointly owned assets 

• Failing to update the Will after major life changes
• Appointing executors who are not willing or able to act
• Overlooking assets or beneficiaries
• Poorly worded clauses causing ambiguity
• Not signing or witnessing correctly

• Get professional advice when drafting complex Wills
• Keep clear, up-to-date records
• Communicate your intentions with family where appropriate
• Ensure witnesses are independent and procedures are followed

Writing a Will can sometimes be straightforward, but complex situations often require expert advice. This section outlines where to get help and key considerations to keep in mind when planning your Will.

Professional advice can come from solicitors specialising in wills and probate, accredited Will writers, or legal advice clinics. Seeking guidance ensures your Will is valid and tailored to your circumstances.

If your estate involves trusts, business interests, overseas assets, or blended families, it’s especially important to get expert help. Complex cases require careful planning to avoid disputes and unintended tax consequences.

When drafting your Will, think about:

Advice on Wills if you have a complex situation

Things to consider when writing a Will

• Who you want to inherit and in what proportions
• Appointing executors who are willing and able to act
• Guardianship arrangements for children or dependents
• Specific gifts versus residual estate distribution
• Potential tax implications and how to minimise them

Wills for blended families or dependents with special needs

Blended families can face unique challenges, such as ensuring all children and partners are provided for fairly. If you have dependents with disabilities or special needs, a Will can set up trusts or make specific provisions to protect their future welfare.

Below are some of the most common questions people ask when thinking about writing a Will. These can help clear up confusion, avoid mistakes, and ensure you're making the best decisions for your future.
 
1. Can I make a Will without a solicitor?
Yes, you can write your own Will without a solicitor, but it's important to follow legal requirements to ensure it's valid.
 
2. Is an online Will valid?
Yes, as long as it meets UK legal standards, including being signed and properly witnessed, an online Will is valid.
 
3. How often should I update my Will?
You should review your Will every few years, or after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, buying property, or having children.
 
4. Can I exclude someone from my Will?
Yes, but you should clearly state your reasons in writing, as excluded individuals may still have grounds to challenge your Will.
 
5. What’s the cheapest way to write a Will?
DIY Will kits and free online templates are the cheapest options, but they carry higher risk if not completed correctly.
 
6. Can I make a Will for free?
Yes, some charities and services offer free Wills during campaigns like Free Wills Month, usually in return for a donation or pledge.
 
7. What is a Mirror Will?
A Mirror Will is when two people (usually a couple) make nearly identical Wills, leaving their estate to each other and the same beneficiaries.
 
8. Is a Trust better than a Will?
They serve different purposes. Trusts can offer greater control and protection, especially for complex estates, but a Will is essential for most people.
 
9. Do I need a Will if I’m under 30?
Yes, especially if you have savings, own property, or want to leave items to specific people or charities.

10. What’s the best Will writing service in the UK?
There are many reputable providers. Choose based on your needs, budget, and whether you prefer online, in-person, or solicitor-led services.
 
11. What happens if I die without a Will in the UK?
Your estate will be distributed according to intestacy rules, which may not reflect your wishes and can exclude unmarried partners or stepchildren.
 
12. Who can witness a Will?
Any two adults over 18 who are not beneficiaries or married to a beneficiary can act as witnesses.
 
13. Can a Will be challenged or contested? 
Yes, a Will can be contested on grounds such as undue influence, lack of capacity, or if someone believes they were unfairly excluded.
 
14. What makes a Will invalid?
Common reasons include not signing it properly, having invalid witnesses, or evidence of pressure or lack of mental capacity.
 
15. What is probate and how does it relate to a Will?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. A valid Will helps make this process smoother.
 
16. Can an executor also be a beneficiary?
Yes, it’s common for executors to also be beneficiaries, such as spouses or children.
 
17. Are Will writing kits reliable?
They can be, but only if filled out correctly. Mistakes or unclear wording can cause problems later on.
 
18. What’s the difference between a Will and a Living Will?
A Will sets out your wishes after death. A Living Will (Advance Decision) outlines your preferences for medical treatment while you’re alive.
 
19. How do I update my Will?
You can make changes using a codicil or by writing a new Will that revokes the old one.
 
20. Where should I store my Will?
Keep it somewhere safe and accessible. You can store it with your solicitor, a bank, or a Will storage service. Let your executors know where it is.
 
21. Do Wills need to be registered in the UK?
No, but voluntary registration with services like the National Will Register can make it easier to find your Will after death.
 
22. Can I write my own Will at home?
Yes, as long as it's correctly signed and witnessed, a home-made Will is legal.
 
23. What is a Codicil and when should I use one?
A Codicil is a legal document used to make minor changes to an existing Will without rewriting the whole thing.
 
24. Do I need a Will if I’m married?
Yes. Marriage doesn’t guarantee your assets will be distributed how you’d like, especially if you have children or previous relationships.
 
25. Can stepchildren inherit under a Will?
Only if they’re specifically named. Stepchildren aren’t automatically entitled to anything under UK intestacy law.
 
26. What is the difference between a Will and a Trust Will?
A Trust Will includes provisions to place part of your estate into a trust, offering more control and protection over how assets are used.
 
27. How long does it take to write a Will?
It can take from under an hour to a few days, depending on complexity and whether you're using a service or writing it yourself.
 
28. Can I make changes to my Will without re-writing it?
Yes, small updates can be made using a codicil. Bigger changes usually require writing a new Will.
 
29. Do I need a separate Will if I own property abroad?
Possibly. It’s often recommended to have a Will in each country where you own property, following that country’s laws.
 
30. What should I never put in my Will?
Avoid funeral instructions that may be missed, illegal or conditional gifts, and unclear or contradictory language.

A quick-reference guide to some of the most common terms used when talking about Wills and estate planning.
 
Executor
The person (or people) named in a Will to carry out the instructions and manage the estate after someone dies.
 
Beneficiary
A person or organisation that receives something (money, property, possessions) from a Will.
 
Intestate / Intestacy
Dying without a valid Will. In this case, the law decides how your estate is distributed.
 
Probate
The legal process of proving a Will and giving someone the authority to deal with the estate.
 
Codicil
A legal document used to make minor changes to an existing Will without rewriting it entirely.
 
Mirror Will
Two Wills (usually written by a couple) that are almost identical, often leaving everything to each other and then to the same beneficiaries.
 
Living Will (Advance Decision)
A document that states your preferences about medical treatment if you become unable to communicate them later.
 
Trust
A legal arrangement where assets are managed by one person (a trustee) for the benefit of another (a beneficiary), often used for children or vulnerable dependents.
 
Witness
A person who observes the signing of a Will and signs it themselves to confirm it was done properly. Must not be a beneficiary or related to one.
 
Residue
What’s left of your estate after debts, taxes, and specific gifts have been paid. This is often left to the main beneficiary.
 
Testator / Testatrix
The person who is making the Will (male: testator; female: testatrix – though "testator" is now commonly used for all genders).
 
Grant of Probate
The legal document issued by a court that confirms the executor’s authority to deal with the estate.

Revocation Clause
A clause in a Will that cancels any previous Wills or codicils to ensure only the current version is valid.

Letters of Administration
A legal document issued when someone dies without a Will, giving someone the authority to deal with their estate.
 
Guardian 
The person appointed in a Will to take legal responsibility for children under 18 if both parents die.
 
Advance Directive 
Another term for a Living Will – instructions for medical care if you become seriously ill or incapacitated.
 
Chattels 
Personal possessions such as furniture, jewellery, or vehicles (not including money or property).

If you're still unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Making a Will can feel complex - but it doesn’t have to be. The most important step is getting informed and taking action that suits your life, wishes, and circumstances.

Learn more about your options
Whether you're considering a solicitor, a professional Will writer, or an online service, take time to compare what's available and what level of support you need.

Find out how to write your Will today
There are simple ways to begin - from trusted online tools to local professionals who can guide you through the process with ease.

Understand what type of Will suits your needs
Everyone’s situation is different. Make sure the Will you choose reflects your family setup, financial assets, and personal wishes for the future.

Still Have Questions About Making a Will?

How to make a Will