Will Writing Checklist: What You Need Before You Start

Writing a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and make sure your wishes are respected. Yet for many people in the UK, the idea of writing a will feels daunting. Questions often arise: what information do I need, who should I choose as executor, how do I make sure everything is legally valid?

This guide breaks the process into simple steps with a practical checklist. By preparing properly, you can make the will writing process smooth, efficient, and stress free.

Why make a will in the UK?

Before diving into the checklist, it helps to understand why writing a legal will in the UK is so important. If you die without a will (known as dying intestate), your estate will be divided according to strict intestacy rules. These rules might not reflect your personal wishes. For example, unmarried partners have no automatic right to inherit.

Having a valid will ensures:

• Your assets go to the people or causes you choose.

• You appoint trusted executors to manage your estate.

• You can reduce the risk of family disputes.

• You may be able to plan ahead for inheritance tax.

Learn more about why you should make a will.

The Will Writing Checklist

When preparing to write your will, gathering the right information in advance will save time and help you make clear decisions.

1. Personal details

Make a note of your full name, address, date of birth, and marital status. If you have been married, divorced, or widowed, these details are especially important as they may affect how your estate is distributed.

2. List of assets and debts

Create a simple overview of your estate. This does not need to be exact to the penny, but it helps to know the main items:

• Property and land (homes, buy-to-let properties, holiday homes).

• Savings accounts, ISAs, and premium bonds.

• Investments such as shares or pensions.

• Vehicles, jewellery, and valuable possessions.

• Debts, including mortgages, loans, and credit cards.

This list makes it easier to decide how to divide your estate fairly.

3. Beneficiaries

Decide who you want to benefit from your estate. Beneficiaries can include:

• Family members such as your spouse, children, or grandchildren.

• Friends, partners, or other relatives.

• Charities or causes you wish to support.

Think carefully about percentages or specific gifts. For example, you may wish to leave a set sum to a charity and divide the rest equally between your children.

4. Executors

Executors are the people you trust to carry out your wishes. They will handle paperwork, deal with probate, and distribute your estate. Many people choose a spouse, adult child, or close friend. You can appoint up to four executors, although two is most common.

It is wise to speak to your chosen executors before naming them in your will. This ensures they are willing and understand what the role involves.

5. Guardians for children

If you have children under 18, you can name guardians in your will. This is one of the most important decisions parents can make. Without this, the courts may decide who cares for your children, which may not reflect your wishes.

6. Funeral wishes

You may also include preferences for your funeral, such as burial or cremation, or whether you want a simple service. While these wishes are not legally binding, they provide guidance to your loved ones at a difficult time.

7. Digital assets

In today’s world, many people have digital property such as online bank accounts, social media, email accounts, or cryptocurrency. Consider how you want these to be managed or passed on.

8. Special instructions and gifts

You can leave specific items to individuals, such as family heirlooms, jewellery, or sentimental possessions. Clear instructions help prevent disagreements later on.

Conversations to have before writing your will

Preparing a will is not just about paperwork. It often involves conversations with your family and chosen executors. Discussing your intentions in advance can:

• Avoid surprises or disputes later.

• Ensure executors are prepared for their role.

• Provide reassurance to loved ones that everything is planned.

You do not need to share every detail, but being open about your main decisions can help create understanding and trust.

Making your will legally valid in the UK

In order for your will to be valid, it must meet certain legal requirements:

• It must be in writing and signed by you.

• It must be witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries.

• You must be of sound mind and making the will voluntarily.

Working with a professional UK will writing service gives you confidence that your document is legally binding and correctly worded.

Final checks before you begin

Here is a quick summary of what you should prepare:

• Personal details (including marital status).

• A list of assets and debts.

• Names of beneficiaries and what you wish them to inherit.

• Choice of executors.

• Guardians for any children under 18.

• Funeral wishes.

• Digital assets and special gifts.

• Conversations with key people.

With these details ready, you will find the will writing process much easier and quicker.

Start your will with confidence

Writing a will is not just about distributing your property, it is about giving peace of mind to those you care about most. By following this checklist, you will be prepared to take the next step and create a legal will in the UK that protects your wishes.

At Choice Wills, we make will writing simple, affordable, and stress free. Whether you prefer to complete your will online or with personal guidance, we are here to help.

Start your will today with our easy online process and protect your loved ones for the future.