Guides Wills

Writing or updating your will

5 ways we’ve taken the stress out of writing a will

Over 30 million adults in the UK don’t have a will. And who can blame them? It’s complex, stressful and incredibly expensive. At least, that’s the way it used to be...

Can you change a will after someone’s died?

If you’re the person looking after a loved one’s will (the executor) or you’re due to inherit something, you might be wondering whether the will is set in stone. This guide talks you through how and why people make changes to a will.

The Year In Wills Report 2020: How COVID-19 made us all face our mortality

Last year saw a huge rise in people writing wills from home. After checking tens of thousands of wills last year, we can now reveal the biggest trends of 2020. And you can also download our full report for tips on making your will.

What happens to debt when someone dies?

When someone dies with outstanding debt, it needs to be repaid from the estate before beneficiaries can get their inheritance. If there isn't enough money in the estate to pay it off, the debt is simply written off.

How to find a will

You can usually find someone’s will with other important financial documents, such as bank statements and pension information. If you can’t find it in their house, you could search online to see if the will is recorded on the National Will Register.

The duties of an executor: executor of will checklist

An executor of a will is responsible for dealing with the estate of the person who died. This includes valuing the estate, selling property, closing accounts, paying off debts and distributing assets to the beneficiaries named in the will.

What is the inheritance tax threshold for 2020?

The inheritance tax threshold for 2020/21 is £325,000. Anything over the threshold is liable to 40% tax – but it doesn’t apply to every case.

How to get your will witnessed when you're self-isolating

If you’re self-isolating due to the coronavirus lockdown, you may be wondering how to get your will witnessed and signed. Here are a few steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones protected.

How to make your will ‘legally binding’

Your will is the best place to set out what you want to happen to you, your loved ones and your money when you die. Here, our Head of Legal, Lorraine Robinson, explains exactly how to make sure your wishes are legally binding.

Deed of variation: how to change someone's will after their death

A deed of variation allows you to change someone’s will after their death. This can be a good way to minimise the amount of inheritance tax that needs to be paid, but it’s essential that all the beneficiaries agree before any changes can be made.

What is next of kin?

Next of kin is the term used to describe your closest living relative, such as your spouse or civil partner. The UK does not have laws around who you can name as your next of kin, but there are specific rules for who takes responsibility when someone dies.

5 festive reasons you should write your will this Christmas

Writing a will for your family can actually be most important gift of all, because it’s a gift for all the Christmases to come. Here are 5 festive reasons you should write your will this Christmas.

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