©InfoMaking a will need not be complicated. The following seven steps will help guide you through the process.
You can also download our worksheet (pdf), which takes you through these simple steps and provides note taking space so you can prepare to meet your solicitor.
1. What do you own?
Make a note of your assets and calculate their approximate value. The value of your estate will be your assets minus any outstanding money owed, for example your mortgage or loans.
2. How do you want to leave it?
Firstly make a note of who you would like to receive your property.
There’s no limit to the number of different gifts you can make. Once you have provided for your loved ones, you could also consider making a gift to charity to transform the lives of people in need. Even a very small percentage of your estate could make a difference.
There are 3 types of gift:
Pecuniary
This is when someone leaves a defined sum of money to charity in their will.
Residuary
This is when you leave a percentage of the remainder of the value of your estate in your will (after all named loved ones, money owing etc has been taken into account).
Specific
A specific item of value. Some people choose to leave a named item in their will to charity. This could vary from a vase to a house.
3. Choose the executor?
Choose who you would like to administer your will as executor(s). You can nominate a partner, close friend, or solicitor.. People usually choose two executors.
There is no restriction on an executor being a beneficiary of your will, but do remember to ask them first.
4. Guardians for young children
If you have children under 18 (under 16 in Scotland) or pets, it is important to choose and ask a guardian to look after them in the event of your death.
5. Meeting the solicitor
Download our will planner, fill it in and take it with you when you meet your solicitor. Your solicitor will discuss your instructions and advise how best to word the will. If you do not have an executor, your solicitor can also arrange this for you. If your estate is large, your solicitor will also advise whether you need to make additional arrangements for tax planning and will advise you of the costs.
6. Approving your will
When drafted, your will will be sent to you to look over for approval. Any changes can be made at this point. Once you are happy with the document your solicitor will ask you to sign it in the presence of two witnesses.
7. Keeping your will safe
You can keep your will at home or your solicitor may offer to hold it for you. Don’t forget to let your family know where it is and make sure it is safe.