End-of-life planning is a topic which is hard to address and all too easy to put off. Many people find it challenging to make a Will or think about making a Will as it can raise some difficult issues and questions.

 

Regardless of your circumstances, it is advisable for everyone over the age of 18 to have a Will in place and without exception, a professionally drafted Will is the best option.  Not only can you be confident that your estate will pass according to your wishes and instructions, but you will be guided in thinking about your assets and family circumstances to ensure that all matters are appropriately dealt with. 

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What are the benefits of making a Will?

There are many benefits to making a Will. These include:

• giving you control by ensuring you do not die intestate—this means that your assets pass to those you intended (and are not dictated by general intestacy rules) and that your estate is administered by people you choose

• ensuring you have appointed executors which makes it much easier and quicker to administer your estate

• ensuring that the people who matter most to you are looked after if you die—this is particularly important if you have young children or if someone vulnerable is dependent on you

• helping you focus on and think about what your assets and liabilities may be if you die—this helps you put your affairs in order during your lifetime if you need to

• ensuring your estate and what you leave behind is maximised by using tax planning and tax reliefs appropriately, particularly in relation to inheritance tax

• ensuring (either through the Will itself or in a supplementary document) that some other very important matters are dealt with, for example appointing guardians if you have young children or detailing your funeral wishes

• allowing you to make gifts to particular people or charities/organisations that are important to you

• allowing you to the opportunity to discuss your estate planning with your family which will significantly reduce the risk of disputes arising after your death

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With your Will you can include a number of Trusts or protections to ensure your wishes are adhered to. You can find more information on our Wills and Trusts page.

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Planning your estate and creating a Will can be complex.  We are here to guide you on every step of the journey.