Making a will
Writing a will is the only way to say who benefits after your death.
You may not want to think about what will happen after you die and the thought of putting it down in writing can be upsetting.
However, writing a will allows you to set out what you want to happen after you die. It ensures that your wishes are set out clearly and you can choose who you want to deal with things on your behalf. By not planning for the future, you could be leaving your family with extra work at what is already an emotionally charged time.
Even if you don't think you have much money, belongings or property it is still important to think about writing a will. A will can also help you make provision for a dependant who is unable to care for themselves. You should discuss this with a solicitor when drawing up your will.
What happens if you don't have a will
If you don't have a will your money, belongings and property will be split up under the Rules of Intestacy. These are the rules prepared by the government setting out who should inherit. Find out more about intestacy on Gov.uk.
Further information
Find out how to write a will on the Citizens Advice website. It also has lots of other advice about writing a will.
You can also find more information about writing a will:
- On the Death and bereavement section of Gov.uk.
- On the Law Society’s website.
Gifts to charities
A legacy is a donation left to a charity in your will. It is a lasting gift, so the causes you feel passionate about in life can continue long into the future.