How do I write my Will?

Writing a Will and keeping it updated is the only way for you to indicate what you would like to happen to your property, money and personal possessions after you die.

We recommend you use a solicitor or a member of the Institute of Professional Will Writers to help you write a Will. There are a few simple steps to help you in writing your Will:

Step 1

Make a list of your assets. It can be a good idea to list your assets and estimate their value. This is something you can do yourself, saving you time and money with your solicitor. Your assets include things such as property, shares, savings and other items of value you own. The sum of these assets is your ‘estate’.

Step 2

Make a list of what you owe. Considering an outstanding mortgage, loans, or bills, will give you a much better idea of the value of your estate.

Step 3

Decide who you would like to benefit and how. Make a list of the people and organisations – such as the charities you support – that you wish to remember in your Will, and consider how you’d like to divide your estate between them.

Step 4

Choose your executors and meet your solicitor or legal adviser. An executor is the person you choose to carry out the terms of your Will, to ensure your wishes are fulfilled correctly. Most people choose their solicitor and/or trusted family members as executors.

Step 5

Make sure your Will is valid. When you come to sign your Will, you will need to make sure there are two independent witnesses who can also sign the document and watch you sign. Make sure the witnesses are not beneficiaries of your estate as this will mean their gift becomes invalid.

Step 6

Keep it safe and up to date. Your Will is obviously a very important document. Most people prefer to leave it in the care of their solicitor or legal advisor and keep their own copy in a safe place, ensuring their executors know where to find it.