1 in 2 UK adults doesn’t have a will.
Many people don’t think they need a will as they are young and healthy; however the sad fact is that things can change in an instant. An up-to-date will is the best way to ensure that your dependents are looked after if something happens to you.
Here’s why you should look at getting a will professionally written as soon as possible.
What could go wrong if I don’t have a will written professionally?
If you die without a will in place, then the courts will decide who is entitled to your assets. This may mean that your money and property might go to someone you don’t want them to go to. For example, if you die without a will and have no living relatives, your possessions may go to the government.
If you’re not married or in a civil partnership, your partner may not be entitled to your estate if you don’t have a will. This is even if you own a home or other assets together.
Do I need a will if I’m married?
Many people think they don’t need a will if they are married or in a civil partnership. This is because they believe their assets will automatically go to their spouse if they die.
While this is true, it gets more complicated if you have children or want your assets to go to other family members and friends. Having a will in place means you can explicitly say which assets are to go to which people.
Plus, a will may mean your surviving spouse avoids paying more inheritance tax.
Are will kits legally binding?
We’re often asked if the will kits you can buy in the shop are legally binding. Technically they are, but we wouldn’t recommend using them.
This is because you can’t be guaranteed the wording in them is legally accurate. This can make your will invalid. You also must ensure your will is properly signed and witnessed by two independent adult witnesses.
Another downside of will kits is that they are only ideal if your requests are simple, for example, if you want to leave everything to your partner or children. If you have complicated wishes, like wanting to leave assets to step-children, it’s best to get a will written professionally.
When your will is professionally written, you can relax safely knowing that your estate will be taken care of.
Richardson’s Wills: expert will writing services across the UK
No matter how old you are, having a professionally written will in place will give your loved ones peace of mind.
If you’re looking to create a will, we’re here to help. Whether you write a will using our online service or work with our team of legal experts, you’ll have a comprehensive document that will convey your wishes after your death.
Contact us today for your free face-to-face or video consultation.
