Free Wills Month
According to some sources, more than half of UK adults do not have a Will in place (1). Having a will in place ensures that your estate is distributed in line with your wishes when you die. Writing a will can also save your family and friends time and money. And it can make sure you don’t pay more inheritance tax than you need to.
Free Wills Month takes place in March and October each year and is a campaign designed to raise money for participating charities. Solicitors across England, Scotland and Wales offer a free will-writing or updating service for individuals aged 55 and over in the hope a small gift will be written in the Will as a gift to charity.
The donation is not obligatory and can be opted against. Solicitors and online Will writing services usually charge around £150 for their services so an individual may decide to match this fee as a donation.
A Will should be regularly reviewed, typically when a major life event has occurred which impacts on an individual's personal or financial situation; such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child etc. This will ensure a Will remains legally valid and as much as possible of an estate goes to those intended.
Free Wills Month begins on 3rd October 2022, you can read more about it here: https://freewillsmonth.org.uk/
If you are interested in this service, it is worth acting promptly as the slots get taken up quickly on a first come first served basis.
There is a guide on the website which leads you through the decision process one step at a time and can help you think about what should be in your Will.
Written by Lucy Conboy
References
(1) https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/half-of-adults-dont-have-wills-but-what-happens-to-your-children-when-you-die-a742J6M3Mye