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There are many good reasons to make a Will, not least the peace of mind gained from knowing that your possessions will be distributed as you wish.
Writing a Will that accurately reflects your wishes, while at the same time saving unnecessary taxes going to the government, is not easy. It requires an extensive knowledge of an ever-changing taxation system, and of the laws that apply to estates.
Having worked hard to earn a living and to gather around you the things you enjoy, you will want them to be appreciated by those to whom you leave them. Writing a Will enables you to plan what will happen to your money and possessions (your estate), so you can live the rest of your life without worrying about the future.
Your Will is a good way of letting people know whether you would prefer to be buried or cremated and the type of funeral service and music you would like at your funeral.
Dying intestate (not leaving a Will) would cause those who will have to deal with your affairs a lot of problems, because they may not be sure of how you want your estate distributed after your death. They will be obliged by law to deal with the estate and distribute it in a particular way, which may not be what you would have chosen.
Disputes over Wills can drive families apart and may need a lawyer to resolve them. Leaving a Will removes any doubt about to whom you want to leave your money and property.
If you do not take professional advice about how best to plan your financial affairs before your death, and leave a properly drafted will, it is possible that some of your estate will go to the Government in unnecessary tax, especially Inheritance Tax.
Certain requirements must be met for a Will to be valid:
The beginning of the Will should state that this will revokes all others. If you have an earlier will it should be destroyed.
Unless your Will is going to be very simple it is advisable to consult a solicitor, especially if you intend to leave significant sums to people other than those who might expect to inherit, eg husband, wife or children; or if you own foreign property or your own business. A solicitor may be prepared to visit you in your own home, care home or hospital. The cost of making a Will varies according to its complexity. Ask at the outset what the cost will be. The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) (see 'Useful website') should be able to provide a list of local solicitors.
FS7 Making a Will - April 2012 (PDF 184 KB)
FS22 Arranging for someone to make decisions about your finance or welfare - January 2012 (PDF 335KB)
FS72 Advance decisions, advance statements and living wills - November 2011 (PDF 180KB)
Set your location to see what Age Cymru offers in your local area.
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is a national network of free advice centres. Your local CAB can provide information on solicitors in your area.
A factsheet that further explains issues surrounding making a Will.
A factsheet with more detailed information about how to arrange for someone to look after your money, property and welfare.
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