Your will – making sure you record your wishes
A will is one of the most important documents you can create to protect your wishes and the people you care about. It sets out exactly what should happen to your money, property, and personal belongings after you pass away. It ensures your estate is distributed in the way you choose. Without a will, the law decides who gets what — and those decisions might not reflect your true wishes or the needs of your loved ones.
Writing a will gives you control and clarity. It can also help decide who will look after your children if they’re still young, and who you trust to manage your affairs as your executor. It's also a chance to name someone you trust to handle your affairs after you're gone.
As well as writing a will, remember to:
Keep it safe – make sure your loved ones know where your will is kept.
Keep it updated – Life changes, like marriage, children, new property or other major events all these factors can affect your will. Review and update it regularly so it always reflects your latest wishes.
Keep it affordable – You don’t have to name the firm that prepared your will as your executor. Professional executors can be expensive, so it could be better to appoint someone you trust who can carry out your wishes without any unnecessary costs.
You can find out more about wills and how to write or change one, on the government backed website MoneyHelper, in the ‘family and care’ section. It is also worth checking what benefits your employer offer as they may have some resources available to help you.
It is also important to complete and keep your expression of wish form up to date, whilst not binding, this will help guide the Trustee in making the right decision if there are any benefits to be paid. You can view and update your expression of wish form on your secure online portal.
Free wills month
Writing a will doesn’t have to be expensive. October and March are free wills months. The free wills month scheme offers people aged 55 and over, free solicitor-drafted (or updated) wills – though it's hoped you'll leave something to charity. You can find more information by visiting the website: www.freewillsmonth.org.uk