So who Can make a UK Will?
In essence anyone in the UK over the age of 18 who is of sound mind however:
There are exceptions 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,could grant the making of a will or a Codicil to a Will for someone who is mentally incapable of doing so themselves.Help about how a mentally incapable person can make a Will can be sought from the Public Guardianship Office website:
What happens if I don't make a Will?
This is called dying Intestate. There are specific rules of intestacy which define who will inherit and to what extent, if you do not leave a valid will, this may be against your wishes
How hard is it to make a Will?
No. You need to make a list of your personal property and any assets take time to think about who you wish to benefit from your estate, ensuring provision has been made for important relatives
It has to be said though that if the will solution in place is not the right one for you, it can leave your estate vulnerable to attack from several sources.
It is also very wise to also consider who you would prefer to look after your children (Guardians) if they were still children
What makes a UK Will valid?
it should be in writing, appoint someone to carry out the proposed actions of the Will (an Executor) and dispose of possessions / property
it must be signed the will must be signed by the person making the will (the Testator), or signed on the testator's behalf in his or her presence and by his / her direction. This has to be carried out in the presence of two witnesses who must sign the will in the presence of the Testator
Who can be a witness?
People who:
is not blind
is capable of understanding the nature and effect of what they are doing
is aged 18 or over
A witness should NOT be:
a beneficiary in the will
married to, or be the civil partner of a beneficiary
Only when these conditions apply the Will remains a valid and legal document, but the gift to the beneficiary cannot be paid.
Can I state what happens to my body in my Will?
Many people shy away from talking about 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.
People should know that your Executors are under no obligation whatsoever to carry out funeral requested in your will. One way to guarantee your wishes are met is to set up a Guaranteed Funeral Plan, you can include details of these arrangements in your will.
Planning to protect your estate, talk to us before its too late!
Quality Trust and Wills Advice
Quality UK Wills
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