Why make a will?

Most of us will have considered making a Will, yet only 30% of the population have done so. Even the most sensible of us often think that making a Will is something to do ‘when I’m older’ or that making a Will is somehow morbid.
Do you know that if you don’t have a Will to ensure your wishes are carried out, a Law from 1925 decides who inherits your possessions after you die?
It’s hard to imagine that a decree that is almost a century old reflects how you would like your family or friends to be treated.
Have a look at our Intestacy Guide to find out who would inherit if you died intestate. Tens of thousands of people every year have their bereavement compounded by the fact that their loved ones left no clear instructions on how their estate should be dealt with in the event of their death, and face court battles and large expenses to try and solve the puzzle.

If you die without a Will, certain rules will determine how your “estate” is allocated. This allocation may not be how you intended your money and possessions to be distributed.
Unmarried partners or partners who have not registered a civil partnership cannot inherit from each other unless there is a will. In the event of the death of one of the partners there could be serious financial problems for the remaining partner.
If you have children a Will needs to be made to ensure arrangements are made for their well being should one or both of their parents die.
It may be possible to reduce the level of inheritance tax if advice is taken in advance and a Will made.
To ensure your “estate” is distributed accordingly if your circumstances have changed. For example if you have separated and your ex partner lives with someone else you might want to change your Will. Also if you are married or enter into a registered civil partnership, this will make any previous Will you have made invalid.

Call, or find your way to us....
Orchard Wills Ltd, Unit 2, Stanley Court, Olney, Buckinghamshire. MK46 5NH
Tel 01234 713938.