National Free Wills Month – don’t delay, make your will today

Each year, March and October are National Free Wills Months.

54% of adults in the UK don’t have a will. If you don’t have a will and the cost of making one is holding you back, then this is your chance!

Why make a will this National Free Wills Month?

Some reasons that you might consider when deciding to make a will are:

1. Deciding who gets your estate: A will allows you to specify how your assets should be distributed after your death. This is your voice after you have died.
2. Being able to appoint guardians for minor children and care givers for pets: You can name someone to take care of your dependents and/or your pets.
3. Making the probate process a lot easier: A will simplifies the legal process for distributing your assets. Your loved ones will feel more in control.
4. Possibly minimising estate taxes: Proper estate planning can help reduce tax liabilities. Seeking professional advice is always a good idea.
5. Choosing an executor: You can designate someone to handle your affairs. This role can be for more than one person. Sometimes, it is more sensible to have a professional executor than one’s own family.
6. Disinheriting unwanted beneficiaries: A will allows you to exclude specific individuals. Having a letter of wishes to support this decision is a must.
7. Making gifts and donations: You can leave a specific cash sum or a percentage of your estate to your favourite charities and your loved ones.
8. Updating your will: You can always revise and update your will as needed. It is good practice to look at your will whenever big life events happen such as marriages, births, deaths and even winning the lottery!

Leaving a gift in your will

Making provision for a gift in your will to your favourite charity or charities is not mandatory, but it would always be very welcome. At Dorothy House, one in five of our patients is cared for each year with thanks to gifts in wills.

How to make your free will

Just click here to find out how you can easily make your free will online, over the phone or in person with a local solicitor. You are also very welcome to call Sarah or Helen on 01225 721480 if you need further guidance.