Making your will - in easy steps

Assess your Estate

Make a list of all your significant possessions and debts; you can use our handy asset calculator to help you by clicking here.

Decide who you would like to benefit

You can choose anyone to receive a share of your estate - your partner, family or friends. You can also leave a legacy to a good cause such as Papworth Hospital Charity.

What sort of gifts would you like to leave?

You can leave any kind of gift from a share of your estate (residuary), an amount of money (pecuniary) or specific items. Your solicitor will be able to advise you on the benefits of different types of legacy.

Choose your Executors

You can choose between one and four people who will be able and willing to ensure that the conditions of your will are carried out. You can choose anyone for this task from friends and family to your bank or solicitor.

Questions?

Make a list of any questions you may want to ask a solicitor.
It’s important that your will is drawn up by a legal professional because if the legal formalities are not followed then your will could be declared invalid.

Ensure that your will is correctly drawn up

Once you are happy with the contents of your will, make sure it is executed and witnessed properly. Your solicitor can advise you on this, and we have provided some examples of wording if you need it.

Keep your will up to date

You should reflect any change in your circumstances in your will. Your solicitor can advise you on the best way to do this. Click here to learn more about updating your will.