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Making a Will enables you to plan exactly what will happen to your property (estate) following your demise. This ensures that those you would like to benefit actually do so, in accordance with your wishes and at the same time avoiding any possible disputes between relatives.
We understand that every family is unqiue. Therefore our trust and will services are shaped around your specific, individual needs. We will get to know you, understand your precise wishes and help to ensure your family is protected and your wealth is passed on in the most secure, tax-efficient way.
Your Will tells everyone what should happen to your money, possessions and property after you die (collectively called your ‘estate’).
If you don’t leave a Will, the law decides how your estate is passed on – and this might not be in line with your wishes. Having a Will in place;
Life Insurance | This product will provide financial support to your dependents in the unfortunate case of you dying |
Private Medical Cover | This type of policy will provide you with a tax-free ‘lump sum’ if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness covered by your policy |
Income Protection | This type of policy would help you and your family to manage your bills if you are ill or injured by paying out up to 70% of your salary tax free until you were able to return to work or retire. |
Quite simply anyone over the age of 18 who is of sound mind, however:
• It is possible for members of the armed forces to make a Will under the age of 18 (advice should be sought in these circumstances).
• Under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 1983, the Court of Protection may approve the making of a Will, or a Codicil to a Will, for someone who is mentally incapable of doing so themselves.
• Guidance on how mentally incapable person can make a Will can be obtained at: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-of-the-public-guardian
This is called having died Intestate. There are specific rules of intestacy which set out who will inherit any by how much, if you do not leave a valid Will. This may not be what you would have wished.m In the worst cast scenarios where relatives cannot be traced, your assets will be taken by the Crown.
Lots of people shy away from discussing their Funeral arrangements with family and friends, so making a Will is a good way of letting people know whether you wish to be buried or cremated and any specific requests you might have for your Funeral service.
However, it should be noted that your Executors are under no obligation whatsoever to carry out Funeral wishes requested in your Will.
One way to guarantee that your wishes are met is to set up a Guarenteed Funeral Plan, you can include details of this planning in your Will.
Unbiased.co.uk revealed last year that two-thirds of UK adults do not have a will in place. When a Will is not in place, a deceased person’s estate is subject to intestacy laws, which may not reflect their final wishes.
If you are not sure what you need or which product will meet your requirements, then we recommend talking to one of our helpful independent specialists.