How-to Guides » Write a will

Why you should write a will

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You decide what happens to your estate

First and foremost: If you die without making a Will (which is termed dying "intestate") the law will decide what happens to your estate. Unless your circumstances are very straightforward, this could leave your loved ones with a financial nightmare.

You can choose who raises your children

If you have children under 18 it's vital to plan what would happen to them, should you die - and the best way to guarantee this is to specify guardians in your Will.

To provide for your partner

To be blunt, unlike married couples, your partner could be legally entitled to the grand total of nothing in the event of your death.

You can minimise the amount of Inheritance Tax (IHT) payable

What's more, if you haven't made a Will stating what should happen to your estate upon your death, it could be subject to Inheritance Tax. IHT is currently payable at a whopping 40%.