Writing a Will - What should I Include?

Approximately 70% of the adult population do not have a will and of the other 40% that do have a will, 1-in-4 do not reflect the wishes of the clients or are simply no longer valid. At Wills Made Clear, it's our job to make sure you have got everything covered in your last Will & Testament.

Large assets

Let's start by looking at the most obvious assets that most people are aware of. Large assets can include things like your house, maybe you also have a holiday home or even you have several rental properties that need to be included. Other large assets could include motorhomes, a static caravan, a car or other vehicles, and any cash that you have in a bank account or isa. This can also include stocks and shares. You need to decide who these assets are psed to, or whether you would like them to be sold, to pass the cash on to loved ones or to charities.

It can also included Directorship of a successful company - have you got plans in place as to who takes over the running of your company when you're gone? Wills Made Clear can help guide you through this process alongside your solicitors.

Small assets

Whether it's jewellery or vintage clothing, there are many smaller assets that people tend to over look when planning their Will. Do you have a valuable collection of old coins or antique items? Maybe your collectables aren't valuable at all in terms of cash value, but you have someone in the family who has the same interest as you that you know would appreciate this items? You need to ensure this is recorded in your Will so that the items are not disposed of or passed to someone who may not appreciate them or understand their value.

Pets

Which family member do you want to look after your beloved furry ones after you have gone? Maybe there is a family member that has other dogs that your dog would settle well with, or maybe there are no family members locally but there is a neighbour who you trust? Whether it's a dog, a cat, a lizard or a horse, it's important to make sure you include them in your Will, so that thy can continue to be cared for in the way that they are accustomed to and that they deserve.

Life insurance

When was the last time you checked your Life Insurance? Who is included in it? Is it sufficient to cover the things you need it to?

Funeral preferences

This could be for religious purposes, or simply to make things as easy as possible for your loved ones. If you are of a different religion to your other family members for instance, you'll want to ensure that your beliefs are respected when it comes to your burial process.

To find out more about what you should include in your last Will and Testament, or for help writing your Will get in touch with Jane today. We look objectively at your plans to provide solutions that work for you, as your priorities change over the years and you go through different life events.