Making a will
Write your will
Your will should set out:
- who you want to benefit from your will
- who should look after any children under 18
- who is going to sort out your estate and carry out your wishes after your death (your executor)
- what happens if the people you want to benefit die before you
You can also include a charity in your will.
When you need legal advice
You can get advice from a professional if your will is not straightforward, for example:
- you share a property with someone who is not your husband, wife or civil partner
- you want to leave money or property to a dependant who cannot care for themselves
- you have several family members who may make a claim on your will, such as a second spouse or children from another marriage
- your permanent home is outside the UK
- you have property overseas
- you have a business
Find out how to choose a will writer.
Keep your will safe
You can keep your will at your home or store it with:
- your solicitor
- your bank
- a company that offers the storage of wills - you can search online
- the
Read full guidance on storing your will with the Probate Service.
You should tell your executor (the person you鈥檝e chosen to carry out your will), a close friend or relative where your will is.