Five easy steps to writing a Will
Step one
Find a solicitor. Ask your friends if they have written a Will and who they can recommend. Alternatively you can find a solicitor by visiting the Law Society’s website .
Step two
Do some preparation. Spend some time thinking about everything you have (your assets) including savings, life insurances, pensions, ISAs, Premium Bonds, specific items of jewellery, and think about who you would like to benefit from these items after your death. Also think about the names of two people who could administer your Will (your executors). Download a copy of our Will Planner to help.
Step three
Go to see the solicitor with your Will planner. Your solicitor will take a note of your wishes and produce a draft Will. You may also require tax planning advice, especially if the total value of everything you have takes you over the threshold for paying Inheritance Tax (£325,000 per person in 2009/10). Your solicitor will be able to help with this.
Step four
Initial draft Will. Your solicitor will send you a draft of the Will for you to approve. You can make any changes you wish at this point.
Step five
Finalise. Once you are happy with your Will your solicitor will ask you to sign it in the presence of two witnesses. A copy of your Will is retained by the solicitor and you should also keep a copy at home and then review it regularly.
For more information please contact us, or call the Hospice Office on 01962 760060
