Funeralguide

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MAKING
AWILL
BY MAKING a will you can decide
what happens to your property and
possessions after your death.
Although you do not have to make
one by law, it is the best way to make
sure your estate is passed on to family
and friends exactly as you wish. If you
die without a will, your assets may be
distributed according to the law rather
than your wishes.
Why it’s important to make a will
A will sets out who is to benefit from your
property and possessions (your estate)
after your death. There are many good
reasons to make a will:
n You can decide how your assets are
shared – if you don’t have a will, the
law says who gets what.
n If you’re an unmarried couple
(whether or not it’s a same-sex
relationship), you can make sure your
partner is provided for.
n If you’re divorced, you can decide
whether to leave anything to your
former partner.
n You can make sure you don’t pay
more Inheritance Tax than necessary.
Preparing your will
Although it is possible to write a will by
yourself, it is advisable to use a solicitor
as there are various legal formalities you
need to follow to make sure that your will
is valid. You may also need legal advice
for more complicated matters.
As well as solicitors, voluntary
organisations such as Citizens Advice
Bureau and Age UK can also help with
your will.
What should be included
in your will
Before you write your will or consult a
solicitor, it’s a good idea to think about
what you want included in your will.
You should consider:
n How much money and what property
and possessions you have.
n Who you want to benefit from your
will.
n Who should look after any children
under 18 years of age.
n Who is going to sort out your estate
and carry out your wishes after your
death – that is your executor.
Where to keep your will safe
Once you’ve made your will, it is
important to keep it in a safe place and
tell your executor, close friend or relative
where it is. If a solicitor makes your will,
they will normally keep the original and
send you a copy.
Keeping your will up-to-date
You should review your will every five
years and after any major change in your
life – such as getting married or divorced,
Reg Charity 246183
WEST BERKSHIRE
COMMUNITY
HOSPITAL
League of Friends
Supplying vital equipment for
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Please send your donations to:
Rooke’s Way, Benham Hill, London
Road, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG18 3AS
for the attention of the secretary.
01635 523573
REGISTERED CHARITY NO: 208078
We offer support and help to
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Such an event can affect us emotionally, physically,
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Bereavement can have serious effects on individuals,
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Cruse gives support and help to everyone who comes to
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Providing free support and help for
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