Find out when and how to update your will, whether to use a codicil or replace the document, and which other records you should check at the same time.
Updating your will is an important way to make sure your wishes are followed and that your loved ones are taken care of. Life changes, and your will should reflect those changes. This guide explains when you should review your will, the safe ways to amend it, and practical steps you can take in England and Wales.
Why you should review your will
Your will is not a one-time task, it is a living document. Reviewing it helps you avoid unintended consequences such as leaving assets to someone who is no longer in your life, or not providing properly for dependants. Common triggers for a review include marriage, divorce, births, deaths, major changes in your assets, and starting or selling a business.
When to review your will
- If someone named in your will dies.
- If you want to change who inherits or alter specific gifts.
- If you have children or your children reach 18.
- If you marry or divorce, as marriage commonly revokes a will under English law, and divorce can affect gifts to an ex-spouse. For official guidance see GOV.UK: Make a will.
- If you inherit assets, buy a second property, or set up a business.
- If your executors or guardians can no longer act, or you want to change them.
How to update your will
There are two main ways to change a will - create a codicil to amend part of the existing will, or revoke the old will and make a new one. In most cases replacing the will is clearer and safer.
Replacing your will
Replacing your will is the option we recommend most often. You simply instruct a solicitor or will service to draft a new document, sign it with the correct formalities and store it safely. The new will should include a clear statement revoking all previous wills and codicils, so there is no doubt about your intentions.
Using a codicil
A codicil is a separate document that amends an existing will. Codicils were useful when documents were typed or handwritten and a small change was needed. However, codicils carry risks: they can become separated from the main will, be overlooked, or contradict the original will and so cause disputes. If a codicil is used, it must meet the same formal signing and witnessing requirements as a will.
Practical steps to update your will
- Make a list of all the changes you want, including assets, executors, guardians and specific gifts.
- Consider wider estate planning needs such as trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney or tax planning.
- Contact a solicitor or a reputable will-writing service to draft the new document. You can explore our will writing services here or set up an online will here.
- Sign the new will in the presence of two independent witnesses who are not beneficiaries and who do not stand to inherit under the will.
- Store the new will safely and let your executors know where it is held. If you use our Safe Custody Service you may benefit from a free will re-write per payment year for minor amendments.
Other documents to check at the same time
When you update your will, check complementary documents so everything works together. Consider a Lasting Power of Attorney to appoint someone to make decisions if you lose capacity. Learn more about LPAs on our LPA page. If you have concerns about inheritance tax or want to protect assets for future generations, you may need a trust. Find our trust services here.
Signing, storage and preventing disputes
Never alter a will by hand, such as crossing out text, as this can invalidate the will or cause the Probate Registry to question whether it was tampered with. Always make a new will or a properly drafted codicil. Keep the signed original in a secure place and tell your executors where it is. You can register the will with the Probate Service or use a professional custody service for added security.
Need help updating your will?
If you are unsure whether to use a codicil or to create a new will, or if you need help coordinating LPAs, trusts and probate planning, talk to us. We can review your situation and explain the practical and legal effects of any change.
Get professional help to update your will
Contact Beneficial Family Wills for a free initial chat about your options.
Updating your will now can avoid confusion later and make sure your loved ones are cared for in the way you intend.
For official information on making a will and the legal formalities, see the GOV.UK guide: Make a will.
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Book a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our expert estate planning consultants. We make wills, LPAs and trusts simple, affordable, and completely stress-free.