The Complete Guide to Making a Will in the UK (2025 Edition)

Making a Will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are followed after you pass away. Yet, millions of people in the UK still don’t have one.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about Wills in the UK — whether you're writing your first Will, updating an old one, or comparing professional services.

What is a Will and Why Do You Need One?

A Will is a legal document that sets out how your assets (your "estate") should be distributed after your death. It can include money, property, possessions, and even who should care for your children or pets.

Without a Will, UK law decides who inherits your estate. This might not reflect your wishes, especially if you're unmarried, separated, or have step-children.

A valid Will ensures:

• Your assets go to the right people
• Your loved ones avoid delays or disputes
• You reduce inheritance tax where possible

Who Can Make a Will in the UK?

Anyone aged 18 or over and of sound mind can make a Will in the UK. You must:

• Know what you're signing
• Make it voluntarily (not under pressure)
• Have the document signed and witnessed properly

Wills are valid in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Scotland has slightly different rules — always check jurisdictional guidance.

DIY Wills vs Using a Professional: What's Safer?

DIY Will Kits are cheap and fast, but they can also be risky. Mistakes can render them invalid or lead to court disputes.

Online Will Services offer a middle ground, guiding you through questions and generating a Will. They're cost-effective, but limited for complex estates.

Professional Will Writers or Solicitors ensure your Will is legally watertight, especially important if:

• You own property
• You're divorced or remarried
• You have children from multiple relationships
• You're concerned about inheritance tax

Tip: All professional services are not equal. Compare prices and check for membership with recognised bodies like the Society of Will Writers or STEP.

How Much Does a Will Cost in 2025?

Prices vary based on complexity and service type:

Service Type Typical Cost Range DIY Will Kit £10 - £50 Online Will Service £50 - £150 Professional Will Writer £80 - £200 Solicitor-drafted Will £150 - £600+

Note: Prices may increase if you require additional services like Lasting Power of Attorney or setting up trusts.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Legally Valid Will

1. List Your Assets: Property, savings, pensions, investments, personal belongings.
2. Choose Your Beneficiaries: Who gets what?
3. Appoint Executors: These are the people who will carry out your wishes.
4. Consider Guardians: If you have children under 18.
5. Write Your Will: Using a DIY kit, online tool, or professional.
6. Sign and Witness: Must be signed in the presence of two witnesses (not beneficiaries).
7. Store It Safely: Let your executors know where to find it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Will

• Not signing or witnessing it properly
• Leaving out children or dependants unintentionally
• Not updating it after marriage, divorce, or the birth of children
• Appointing executors without checking if they’re willing
• Not considering inheritance tax implications

How to Update or Cancel a Will

You can’t just cross things out. Instead:

• Make a Codicil: A legal addition to your Will
• Write a New Will: This automatically revokes your old one

Always destroy old copies to avoid confusion.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will?

Dying without a Will is called intestacy. In the UK, your estate will be distributed according to set rules:

• Married/civil partner: receives most or all
• Children: inherit only if estate exceeds certain thresholds
• Unmarried partners: receive nothing unless included in the Will

It can also delay probate and create family disputes.

Compare Trusted Will Writers & Solicitors Near You

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