What Information Do I Need To Write A Will?

The will must contain basic information about you (or the person whose will you are writing), including your name and address, and provide similar details for your spouse, children and other dependents if applicable.

It’s crucial that the will lists all the items that make up your estate. Such assets can include any properties you own, bank accounts, company shares and other investments, and personal items such as vehicles and jewellery.

Just as a Will must list all your assets, so it must provide an account of all outstanding debts. These can include mortgages, bank loans and amounts owed on credit cards.

All of these financial obligations must be met before the estate can be distributed in line with your wishes.

These are the people and organisations to whom the assets are to be distributed – in many cases they will consist of relations, friends and charities. It’s very important to be clear about exactly what each is to receive or else there could be a legal dispute over the distribution of the estate.

Should you have children who are dependent on you for their care, the Will should state whom you wish to act as their guardian.

Many people use their Will to express their wishes over funeral arrangements, including whether it is to be a burial or cremation, and if the funeral is to include a religious service.

The executor will be the person you have chosen to handle the implementation of your Will and so their name, address and contact details should be provided. Some people choose to appoint more than one executor to share the burden and provide a safeguard should one of them be unable to carry out the role.

The Will must be signed by you and two witnesses – these individuals cannot be family members or beneficiaries.

Checklist for making a Will:

• Personal details
• Assets
• Debts
• Beneficiaries
• Childcare arrangements
• Funeral arrangements
• Executor
• Signatures

Many people choose to gain the peace of mind that comes from having their Will written by solicitors.

Wilson Browne Solicitors has a wealth of experience in all aspects of writing Wills and can take the stress and anxiety out of the process for you.

We recognise what an emotional issue this is and work at all times with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism.

Our network of branches means you can be assured of a friendly face-to-face meeting at a convenient location.

Please call 0800 088 6004 or complete our online contact form.