The 10 Most Common Myths about Making a Will

Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect the people you love, yet myths and misunderstandings put many people off. Below we debunk the 10 most common myths about making a will, and give clear, practical advice so you can take action with confidence.

Why these myths matter

Myths about wills can mean your estate ends up elsewhere, your partner is left without anything, or your children do not get the guardians you would have chosen. Knowing the facts helps you plan correctly, and keeps your family out of unnecessary stress and cost.

The 10 most common myths, explained

1. I already have a will so I do not need a new one

Having a will is great, but it is not a one-off task. You should review your will every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if your circumstances change, for example after marriage, divorce, births, deaths or if you inherit money. Keep track of where your will is stored and make sure your executors know how to find it.

2. Everything will go to my partner anyway

Do not assume intestacy will protect an unmarried partner. If you die without a will the rules of intestacy apply, and they do not recognise cohabiting couples. That means your partner could receive nothing. If you are married or in a civil partnership different rules apply, but even then writing a will lets you make clear, specific wishes.

3. Making a will is complicated

It does not have to be. You can meet a professional at home, by phone or by video call, or use a reputable online will service. A specialist will writer can help with tricky matters like blended families, trusts for children, or gifts of property. If you want professional help, see our will writing service at /will-writing or our /online-will option.

4. Making a will is morbid

Writing a will is simply practical. It gives you peace of mind, and ensures your wishes are known. Many clients find the process reassuring and freeing, because their affairs will be in order.

5. Once I have written a will it cannot be changed

You can update or revoke your will at any time while you have mental capacity. Use a codicil for small changes, or make a new will for significant revisions. Keep older wills safely destroyed if you replace them, to avoid confusion.

6. I need a solicitor to write a will

You do not have to use a solicitor, but you should use a regulated, accredited professional. Look for members of recognised bodies such as the Society of Will Writers or the Institute of Professional Willwriters. If a will writer is confident but not accredited, ask questions and check insurance and complaints procedures.

7. My family will sort everything out between themselves

If you die intestate your estate will pass under the government rules, not by family agreement. That can lead to disputes and legal delays. A clear will avoids uncertainty, and can limit family conflict by explaining your reasons and appointing an executor to act on your behalf.

8. Wills are for the rich - I do not have anything to give

Most people have assets that need distributing: bank accounts, pension death benefits, personal possessions, or sentimental items. A will lets you name beneficiaries, gift specific items, and make funeral wishes. Even modest estates benefit from a clear plan.

9. My debts will die with me

Debts do not disappear. Outstanding debts are paid from your estate before gifts are distributed. If you have joint debts, the surviving debtor usually remains responsible. Your will can still control who receives what after debts are settled.

10. Wills are only for the elderly or the ill

Anyone over 18 with capacity should consider a will. If you have children under 18 a will is essential to name guardians. Young families, homeowners and people with life insurance should all have a plan in place.

Practical next steps

• Review your will, or make one if you do not have one.
• Check storage and make sure executors know where the original is kept.
• Consider lasting powers of attorney for health and finances, to protect you while you are alive. Learn more at /lasting-power-of-attorney.
• If you have complex assets, trusts may help protect beneficiaries, see /trusts.

For official guidance on making a will and what happens if you die without one, see the UK government guidance at gov.uk: Make a will.

If you want to talk through your options, contact us for a free, no obligation chat or book in with one of our specialists. You can also find practical help with probate at /probate.

Need help now? Book a call with one of our advisors at /contact, or start an online will at /online-will.