Update your will week: Why Reviewing Your Will is More important Than Ever
Did you know that more than half of UK adults over 30 don’t have a Will?
Many people assume that once a Will is written, it doesn’t need to be touched again—but life changes, and your Will should too. That’s why Update Your Will Week is the perfect reminder to review your Will and make sure it still protects your loved ones.
Why Should You Update Your Will?
A Will is not a static document - it should evolve as your circumstances change. Here’s why updating your Will is so important:
1. Life Events That Require a Will Update
Your Will should always reflect your current wishes and circumstances. If you’ve experienced any of the following, it’s time to review your Will:
Marriage or Civil Partnership – Marriage revokes your existing Will unless it was written in contemplation of marriage. If you don’t update it, your estate may be distributed according to intestacy laws instead of your personal wishes.
Divorce or Separation – Divorce affects your Will and how your estate is treated. If your Will isn’t updated, your wishes may not be followed.
Having Children or Grandchildren – A Will ensures your children are financially provided for and can name guardians in case anything happens to you. Without one, the courts decide who cares for them.
Buying Property or Other Assets – If you’ve bought a house, inherited money, or started a business, your Will should reflect who you want these assets to go to.
Losing a Beneficiary or Executor – If someone named in your Will passes away or is no longer suitable, you should update your Will to avoid complications.
Tax Law Changes – The recent Inheritance Tax freeze until 2030 means more estates could be liable for tax. Updating your Will with a solicitor can help reduce tax burdens for your loved ones.
2. Common Mistakes in Outdated Wills
Not Naming a Reserve Beneficiary – If your sole beneficiary passes away before you, your estate could go to distant relatives or the government.
Forgetting About Digital Assets – Social media, online banking, cryptocurrency—your Will should include instructions for digital assets.
Pets Are Left Unaccounted For – Only 1 in 4 UK pet owners include their pets in their Will. If you don’t make provisions, your pets could end up in a shelter.
No Provisions for Business Ownership – Business owners should include a succession plan in their Will. Without one, your business may struggle to continue.
3. What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Will?
If you don’t update your Will, your estate may be distributed in a way that does not match your wishes. Under intestacy rules:
Your spouse may not inherit everything—if you have children, they could receive part of your estate.
Unmarried partners get nothing—only legally married or civil partners inherit under intestacy laws.
Your business could be left in limbo—without a plan, your business may struggle to operate or be sold.
4. How Often Should You Review Your Will?
Every 3-5 years
After any major life event (marriage, children, divorce, property purchase)
If there are changes in inheritance tax laws
5. How to Update Your Will
Updating your Will doesn’t have to be complicated. If you already have a Will, you can make changes by:
Adding a Codicil – A legal amendment to your existing Will for minor changes.
Writing a New Will – Best for major changes like new beneficiaries, assets, or tax planning.
FAQ: Common Questions About Wills
💡 Q: Do I need a solicitor to update my Will?
👉 While you can write your own Will, using a qualified solicitor ensures your changes are legally sound and reduces the risk of mistakes.
💡 Q: What happens if I lose my original Will?
👉 If the original Will is lost or destroyed, it may be treated as if you died without a Will (intestate) unless a legally certified copy exists. It’s crucial to store your Will safely and let your executors know where to find it. Your executors will need the original Will when you die, so it will make life easier for them if they know where it is.
💡 Q: What happens if I pass away before updating my Will?
👉 If your Will is out of date and circumstances have changed, it may still be legally binding. If you don’t keep it up to date, your estate may be distributed based on outdated wishes.
Take Action: Update Your Will Today
Updating your Will is an easy step that ensures your loved ones are cared for and your estate is handled according to your wishes.
📞 Need to update your Will? I’m here to help. Call: 0115 824 4960
📧 Email: hannah@hannahhowesolicitor.co.uk
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