:: The Top 7 Excuses
There are a number of common excuses people make about why they haven't made a will. Click here to find out more.

 

:: For nearly 500 years
There are a number of common excuses For nearly 500 years, the Church of England has encouraged its members to keep their wills up-to-date. The Book of Common Prayer instructs the clergy to visit those who are sick and remind them: "And if he have not before disposed of his goods, let him then be admonished to make his Will, and to declare his debts, what he oweth, and what is owing unto him; for the better discharging of his conscience, and the quietness of his Executors. But men should often be put in remembrance to take order for the settling of their temporal estates, whilst they are in health."

 

Making and Revising Wills

Most people need to review their will at least every five years to check that it is still reasonably up-to-date.

At different stages of life, different things are important to us. Family events such as births, marriages and deaths may make a difference to our intentions. Reviewing a will gives peace of mind that your current wishes will be carried out.

You are strongly advised to consult a solicitor or professional adviser when making or revising a will. Most solicitors will charge under £50 to revise a will, and around £100 for writing a fresh will, assuming that you have a straightforward estate. Most solicitors will quote a fixed price, and will offer a discount if your partner needs a mirror will at the same time.

We offer a range of resources that may help you revise your will :

  • Alan Titchmarsh: Find out why Alan Titchmarsh encourages us to review our wills regularly and consider leaving a gift to the Church.
      
  • Six Steps to make or review your will.
      
  • Planner : A template to help you think through the wishes you would like to express in your will.
      
  • Suggested Wording : Your solicitor may find the sample wording that we offer helpful.
     
  • Glossary:  An explanation of many of the technical terms used when talking about wills and legacies.