October marks Free Wills Month, an initiative that gives people aged 55+ the opportunity to write or update a simple will for free with a participating solicitor across selected locations in the UK. The month also serves as an opportunity for people to think about their estate and legacy planning, and make sure their wishes are laid out for loved ones should the worst unexpectedly happen.
MetLife UK looked at the key questions people have asked search engines and AI chatbots over the past year related to writing wills, according to AnswerThePublic. Charlotte O’Brien, Head of Employee Benefits at MetLife UK, shares some key tips everyone should know regarding these questions:
1. What are the essential steps to write a legally valid will in the UK?
Start by deciding who you want to benefit, who you want to administer your estate and whether you want to leave any specific gifts. In England and Wales, your will must be in writing, made voluntarily, and signed by you in the presence of two witnesses, who must then sign it too. If you already have a will, make sure any new one properly revokes the previous version. Rules differ across the UK, so check the requirements where you live.
2. What are the legal requirements for a valid will in England?
In England and Wales, you must be aged 18 or over, make your will voluntarily and have the necessary mental capacity. It must be in writing and signed in the presence of two witnesses aged 18 or over, who then sign it themselves. Your witnesses should not be beneficiaries, or the spouse or civil partner of a beneficiary, as this can affect their inheritance. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different rules.
3. How much does it cost to have a solicitor draft a will?
Costs vary depending on the solicitor and how complicated your circumstances are. A straightforward will generally costs less than one involving trusts, business interests or overseas assets, so always check exactly what is included in a quote. For people aged 55 and over, Free Wills Month offers the opportunity to have a simple will written or updated free of charge with a participating solicitor in selected locations, although appointments are limited.
4. What are the steps to take when updating an existing will after marriage?
Marriage can significantly affect your will. In England and Wales, it normally cancels a previous will, unless it was made in contemplation of that particular marriage. So, if you’re getting married, review your will rather than assuming your existing arrangements still apply. This is particularly important if you have children from a previous relationship or jointly owned assets, as these can make estate planning more complicated. You should also consider your beneficiaries for any life insurance policies and pension pots you have in place.
5. What documents do I need to gather before writing or updating my will?
Start with a simple list of your assets and debts, including your home, savings, investments, pensions, business interests, mortgage and other liabilities. You should also have the full names of the people you want to benefit and anyone you may want to appoint as an executor. If you have a previous marriage, children from different relationships, overseas assets or a business, flag this early as it could affect your planning.
6. Can I write or update my will using a mobile app safely?
Online services and apps can help you get started, but completing a digital template doesn’t automatically make a will legally valid. In England and Wales, the required signing and witnessing formalities still apply. If your circumstances are straightforward, an online service may be an option, but if you have a complicated family situation, business interests or overseas assets, professional advice can help avoid costly mistakes.
MetLife Group Life customers and their families can also access funeral planning and support services provided by Everest Funeral Concierge. This includes access to a funeral adviser, online planning tools and support with wills and probate, helping families navigate some of the practical challenges that come with loss.
