Who Needs a Will and When Should You Make One?

A will is a legal paper that sets out what you want to happen to your money, home, and belongings after you die. It can also say who you would like to look after your children and pets. Many people think that wills are only for older people or the very rich, but that is not true.

In fact, having a will is one of the best ways to plan for the future. It means you can make clear choices about who gets what from your estate. This can make things much easier for your family and stop arguments. It also helps make sure your final wishes are followed just as you want them to be.

Without a will, your estate may not be shared out the way you would have liked. Writing a will gives you peace of mind that your loved ones will be cared for in the way you choose.

Life Situations That Make Writing a Will Essential

There are many points in life when writing a will becomes not just useful, but essential. These are usually times when your life changes in a big way. Below are examples that show when it’s important to have a will in place.

You Have Children or Dependants

If you have young children or anyone who depends on you, making a will is important. You can name someone you trust to take care of your children if you die. This lets you choose someone who shares your values and will raise your children the way you want.

You can also make sure money or other parts of your estate are kept safe for your children until they are old enough. This can be done by naming someone to manage the money for them, known as a trustee.

Without a will, the court decides who will raise your children. This might not be the person you would choose. That’s why it’s best to write down your wishes clearly.

You Own Property or Have Savings

If you own a home or have savings, a will ensures your estate goes where you want it to. This includes jewellery, tools, vehicles, or even digital accounts. A will can prevent family arguments and stop your belongings going to someone you would not choose.

You don’t need to be wealthy to protect your estate. Even a small amount of money or property can mean a lot to those left behind. A will keeps you in control and helps your loved ones understand your wishes.

You’re Getting Married, Divorced or Living with Someone

Big changes in relationships are key times to write or update your will. When you marry, any will made earlier might no longer be valid unless it was written with that marriage in mind. This can create confusion over who inherits your estate.

If you divorce, your ex-partner may still benefit from your will unless you change it. If you live with someone but are not married, they may not receive anything if you die without a will. Writing one lets you choose who is included and who is not.

You Have Pets, Gifts or Special Wishes

Pets are often part of the family. A will allows you to name someone to care for your pets and can include money to cover their needs. It helps make sure they are looked after properly.

You can also leave gifts to friends, neighbours, or charities. These can be small items with personal meaning, like a book or watch. Your will can also include funeral wishes. Adding these details makes things easier for your family to follow.

The Right Time to Make a Will Is Often Sooner Than You Think

Many people wait to make a will, thinking they are too young or don’t own enough to bother. But the truth is, as soon as you have anything worth passing on or anyone depending on you, it’s time to think about writing a will.

Life is full of surprises. Accidents and illnesses can happen to anyone at any time. Having a will in place means your estate will be handled the way you want it to, no matter what happens.

If you are over 18 and own anything of value or have responsibilities, it’s never too early to write your will. It’s also a good habit to review it every few years or when your life changes in big ways, like moving house, starting a new job, or having children.

The best time to start planning is when life is calm. That way, you can take your time, get the right advice, and be sure your will covers everything you need it to. You don’t have to wait for a crisis or a big event to take this simple but important step.

What Can Happen If You Put It Off Too Long

If you die without a will, the law decides what happens to your estate. This process is called dying intestate. It often means your money, home, and other belongings may not go to the people you care about most.

For example, if you have a partner but are not married or in a civil partnership, they may get nothing, even if you lived together for many years. Your belongings might instead go to a distant relative, or to people you no longer speak to. This can cause stress, sadness, and conflict.

Sorting out an estate without a will usually takes much longer and costs more. It may involve going to court, hiring legal help, and waiting for months. During this time, your family may not be able to access your money, home, or belongings, even if they really need them.

In rare cases where no relatives can be found, the estate may even go to the government. This is something most people would want to avoid. Writing a will makes sure your estate is handled in a fair and personal way that reflects your wishes.

How to Take the First Step Toward Writing Your Will

Getting started with your will does not have to be hard. With a bit of thought and planning, you can take control and make sure your estate is protected for the future.

Think About What You Own and Who Matters to You

Start by making a list of everything you own. This can include your house, savings, pension, car, and personal items. Then write down the names of people or groups you would like to leave them to. This gives you a good picture of your estate and what your will needs to cover.

Also think about who you trust to handle your estate. This person is called an executor. They should be someone you believe will follow your wishes and manage things well. It can be a family member, friend, or a professional.

Choose the Right Way to Write Your Will

There are different ways to write a will. You can use a solicitor, a will writing service, or even an online tool. A solicitor is best if your estate is complex or you have special wishes. They can make sure your will is clear, legal, and meets all the rules.

Some people choose cheaper services or write their own will. This can work for simple estates, but it is important to make sure the will is signed, witnessed, and stored safely.

Keep Your Will Up to Date and Easy to Find

Once you have written your will, tell someone you trust where it is kept. This could be in a safe place at home, with your solicitor, or with a trusted storage service. It is no good if no one can find it when needed.

Also, remember to update your will when your life changes. Things like moving house, having a baby, or ending a relationship should be reasons to check your will again. Keeping it up to date means your estate will always match your current wishes.