| Name | Logo | Single Will | Couple Wills | Phone Will | Founded | CTA | Feature | Expand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Single Will £19.99 | Couple Wills £29.99 | Phone Will n/a | Founded 2011 | : | | ||
| | Single Will £100 | Couple Wills £160 | Phone Will £160 | Founded 2015 | :
| | ||
| | Single Will £149 | Couple Wills £249 | Phone Will Free | Founded 200 | : | | ||
| | Single Will £99 | Couple Wills £159 | Phone Will n/a | Founded 2011 | : | | ||
| | Single Will £60 | Couple Wills £90 | Phone Will n/a | Founded 2008 | : | |
How to Write a Will
You can write a will in several different ways. The most common today is to use an online service, where you fill out a secure form with your details, list your assets and beneficiaries, and then print and sign the completed document with witnesses. This is usually sufficient for most straightforward estates and has the advantage of being quick, affordable, and easy to update.
Another option is to visit a solicitor in person. This is more expensive but may be necessary if you have complex family arrangements, own property abroad, run a business, or want to set up trusts. Solicitors can provide tailored advice and ensure the will stands up to any legal challenge.
For those who prefer a completely DIY approach, it is also possible to buy templates or will-writing kits. However, these should only be used for the simplest of estates, as mistakes in drafting or witnessing can easily make the will invalid.
Can You Write Your Own Will?
Yes, you can write your own will using templates, kits, or even by hand. As long as it is written, signed, and witnessed correctly, it can be legally valid. The risk is that errors or omissions may cause disputes after your death, so while this is the cheapest option, it is not always the most reliable.
How Much Does It Cost to Write a Will?
The cost of writing a will depends on the method you choose. A DIY kit may cost as little as £10, but this carries a higher risk of mistakes. Online will writing services usually range from £90 to £150 for a single will, with optional subscriptions for regular updates. If you choose to go to a solicitor, you can expect to pay £150 to £500 for a standard will and up to £1,000 or more for more complex cases.
What Happens If You Don’t Write a Will?
If you die without a will, you are said to have died “intestate”. In this situation, the law decides how your estate is divided according to strict rules. Usually, your spouse, civil partner, or children inherit first, but if you are unmarried or have a blended family, the distribution may not reflect your wishes. In cases where there are no eligible relatives, your estate can pass to the Crown.
Who Looks After Your Will?
The person responsible for managing your will is called the executor. You appoint them when you create your will, and their job is to apply for probate, settle any debts, and distribute your estate to your chosen beneficiaries. If you do not appoint an executor or your chosen executor cannot act, the court can appoint an administrator, usually a close relative.
What Is the Biggest Mistake in a Will?
One of the most common mistakes is failing to have the will signed and witnessed correctly. A will that is not properly executed can be declared invalid, leaving your estate subject to intestacy rules. Other mistakes include failing to update the will when your circumstances change, using unclear wording that can cause disputes, and overlooking stepchildren, unmarried partners, or other dependants.
Can You Write a Will Without Going to a Solicitor?
Yes, you do not need to use a solicitor to write a valid will. Online services provide a simple alternative, and even DIY kits are legally recognised if completed correctly. However, a solicitor can be invaluable if you have complex requirements or anticipate disputes.
Why Is It Important to Write a Will?
Writing a will is important because it ensures your assets are passed on according to your wishes, rather than the default rules of intestacy. It allows you to provide for unmarried partners or stepchildren, appoint guardians for your children, and reduce the risk of family disputes. Ultimately, it gives peace of mind that your affairs are in order and that your loved ones will be looked after.