How to Make a Will in the UK

What makes a will legally valid?

For a will to be legally valid in England and Wales, it must meet three basic requirements under the Wills Act 1837:

1. It must be in writing — handwritten or typed, though typed is strongly recommended for clarity
2. You must sign it (or have someone sign it on your behalf in your presence)
3. Two witnesses must watch you sign and then sign the will themselves

The witnesses must be present at the same time, and neither witness (nor their spouse or civil partner) can be a beneficiary of the will — otherwise their gift becomes void.

Step 1: Decide what to include

Before you start writing, take stock of your estate. This includes:

• Property — your home or any other real estate
• Bank accounts and savings — including ISAs and premium bonds
• Investments — shares, funds, pensions with death benefits
• Personal possessions — jewellery, vehicles, furniture, collections
• Digital assets — online accounts, cryptocurrency, digital media
• Life insurance — policies that form part of your estate

Make a list of everything you own and its approximate value. This helps you decide how to divide your estate fairly.

Step 2: Choose your beneficiaries

Beneficiaries are the people (or organisations) who will inherit from your estate. You can leave:

• Specific gifts — a named item or sum of money to a particular person
• Residuary estate — everything that's left after specific gifts, debts, and expenses

Think carefully about who you want to benefit and what share they should receive. You can also include charities, which may reduce your inheritance tax liability.

Step 3: Appoint executors

Executors are the people responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will. They'll apply for probate, settle your debts, and distribute your estate. You should choose:

• At least one executor (you can appoint up to four)
• People you trust to act responsibly and impartially
• Someone who is likely to outlive you

Common choices include a spouse, adult child, close friend, or a professional such as a solicitor. It's good practice to name a backup executor in case your first choice can't act.

For more guidance, see our guide on how to choose an executor.

Step 4: Name guardians for children

If you have children under 18, your will is where you name their legal guardians — the people who would raise them if both parents die. Without this, the courts decide, and it may not be the person you'd choose.

Discuss it with your chosen guardians beforehand to make sure they're willing and able to take on the responsibility.

Step 5: Consider funeral wishes

While not legally binding, your will is a good place to record your preferences for burial or cremation, the type of service you'd like, and any other wishes. This can be a comfort to your family at a difficult time.

Step 6: Write your will

You have several options:

• Online will-writing service — guided, affordable, and reviewed by legal professionals
• Solicitor — face-to-face advice, usually the most expensive option
• DIY will kit — cheap but risky; mistakes can make your will invalid or unclear

Whichever route you choose, clarity is essential. Ambiguous language is one of the most common causes of will disputes.

Step 7: Sign and witness your will

Once your will is written:

1. Sign the will in the presence of two witnesses
2. Both witnesses sign the will in your presence
3. All three of you should be in the same room at the same time

Remember: witnesses and their spouses cannot be beneficiaries. Choose people who are easy to contact in the future.

Step 8: Store your will safely

Keep the original in a secure place and tell your executors where it is. Options include:

• A fireproof safe at home
• Your solicitor's office
• The Probate Service's storage facility (for a small fee)

Make sure at least one person knows how to find your will when the time comes.

Keep your will up to date

A will isn't a one-and-done document. You should review it every few years, and after any major life event such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a significant change in your finances.

Making your will is one of the most responsible things you can do for the people you love. It doesn't need to be complicated — and with the right guidance, it's quicker than you'd think.