Why Writing a Will Shouldn’t Be Delayed: Secure Your Family’s Future Today
What would happen to your loved ones if something happened to you unexpectedly? If you haven’t written a will yet, your assets and wishes could be left in legal limbo. Now’s the time to take control—this guide shows you how.
What would happen to your loved ones if something happened to you unexpectedly? If you haven’t written a will yet, your assets and wishes could be left in legal limbo. Now’s the time to take control—this guide shows you how.
The Real Cost of Putting It Off
Many people delay writing a will, thinking it's only for the elderly or wealthy. In reality, if you own a home, have children, or possess any savings, you should have a will in place. Without one, your estate could be distributed according to UK intestacy rules—not your personal preferences.
Worse still, your partner may not be legally entitled to inherit, and your children's guardianship could be left to chance.
Think of a will not as a legal formality, but as a personal statement of trust, care, and foresight.
What Exactly Is a Will?
A last will and testament is a legal document that sets out how you want your property and assets distributed after your death. It also allows you to:
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Appoint an executor (someone to carry out your wishes)
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Name guardians for minor children
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Leave gifts to charity
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Protect vulnerable beneficiaries through trusts
This is your chance to make sure everything goes to the right people, in the right way, at the right time.
When Should You Write a Will?
The best time to write a will is as soon as you reach adulthood and own anything of value. Key life events are also a good trigger:
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Buying a home
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Getting married or entering a civil partnership
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Having children
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Going through divorce
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Receiving an inheritance
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Starting a business
The truth is, life can change in an instant. Having a legally binding will protects your interests no matter what happens.
Choosing a Will Writing Service That Fits You
You don’t need to navigate this process alone. There are professional will writing services across the UK offering flexible solutions for different needs and budgets:
Solicitors
Best for complex estates, blended families, or if you want the highest level of legal assurance. Most solicitors provide fixed-fee will writing and can offer inheritance tax planning advice.
Specialist Will Writers
These are regulated professionals (often members of organisations like the IPW) who focus exclusively on will and estate services. They’re usually more affordable than solicitors and still provide tailored advice.
Online Will Writing Platforms
Convenient and cost-effective, these services guide you through a digital form. Ideal for simple wills. However, be cautious: they may lack legal support or may not account for unique family situations.
What to Expect: The Will Writing Process
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you feel prepared:
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Gather Information
List all your assets: savings, property, pensions, valuables, and debts. Identify your beneficiaries and guardians if needed.
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Choose Executors
Pick someone you trust to carry out your wishes. You can have more than one executor—consider naming a backup too.
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Meet With a Professional (or Use a Service)
Whether you visit a solicitor or use an online tool, the service will help translate your wishes into a legally valid document.
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Sign and Witness the Will
In England and Wales, two witnesses must observe your signature. They must not be beneficiaries or married to one.
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Store It Safely
Keep the will in a secure place—many professionals offer secure storage. Tell your executor where to find it.
How Much Does Will Writing Cost?
| Service Type | Typical Cost Range |
| DIY Will Kit | £10 - £30 |
| Online Will Service | £40 - £150 |
| Professional Will Writer | £100 - £250 |
| Solicitor (Simple Will) | £150 - £300+ |
| Solicitor (Complex Will) | £300 - £1000+ |
Many people find that the peace of mind is well worth the cost—especially when your family's financial future is on the line.
Protecting Your Will From Future Disputes
To minimise any potential confusion or legal challenge later:
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Be clear and specific in your wording
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Keep the will updated as your circumstances change
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Include an exclusion clause if you wish to leave someone out
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Communicate your intentions with family, if appropriate
Even a simple will can prevent stress, confusion, and disputes among family members.
Common Questions About Writing a Will
Q: Is a handwritten will valid in the UK?
A: It can be—but it still needs to meet legal requirements for signing and witnessing. Without legal advice, you risk making critical errors.
Q: Can I update my will?
A: Yes. You can write a new will at any time or add a codicil (an amendment). Make sure the old version is destroyed to avoid confusion.
Q: What happens if I die without a will?
A: Your estate is divided by default under UK intestacy laws, which may exclude unmarried partners or stepchildren.
Final Thoughts: Your Legacy Starts Now
Writing a will is not just about preparing for death—it’s about planning for life. It ensures your wishes are honoured, your loved ones are protected, and your affairs are in order no matter what the future holds.
So why wait? Take the next step today and choose a will writing service that suits your needs. Whether online, through a solicitor, or with a trusted will writer, you’re making one of the smartest decisions for your family’s future.
Helpful Links:
Law Society – Find a Solicitor