Top Tips for Updating your Will

A Will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever create. It ensures your wishes are followed and that your loved ones are looked after when you’re no longer here. However, life is constantly changing, and an outdated Will can lead to unintended consequences.

As part of Update Your Will Week 2025 (3-9 March), we’re sharing key tips to help you review and update your Will with confidence.

Why Should You Update Your Will?

Your Will should reflect your current circumstances and intentions. If it no longer does, it’s time to make changes. It’s a good idea to review your Will every 3-5 years or after any major life event.

Key Reasons to Update Your Will

Consider updating your Will if you have experienced:

✔️ Marriage, divorce, or separation – Marriage revokes a previous Will unless it includes a clause stating otherwise. A divorce does not invalidate your Will but treats your ex-spouse as if they had died before you.

✔️ Birth of children or grandchildren – Ensure they are included as beneficiaries or guardians are appointed if needed.

✔️ Buying or selling property – If your Will includes property, you may need to adjust how your assets are distributed.

✔️ A change in financial circumstances – If your wealth has increased or decreased, your Will should reflect how you want your assets handled.

✔️ Death of a beneficiary or executor – If someone named in your Will has passed away, it’s important to make necessary updates.

Important Considerations When Updating Your Will

1️⃣ Are Your Executors Still Suitable?

Executors are responsible for managing your estate after your passing. If your chosen executors are no longer the best fit, consider appointing someone else who is capable and willing to take on this responsibility.

2️⃣ Are Your Beneficiaries Correct?

Over time, your relationships and priorities may change. Make sure the people or charities named in your Will still reflect your current wishes.

3️⃣ Do You Have Young Children?

If you have children under 18, your Will should specify who you want to be their legal guardian in the event of your passing. Without a named guardian, the courts may decide who takes care of them.

4️⃣ Have You Considered Inheritance Tax?

Updating your Will is a good opportunity to review any potential inheritance tax (IHT) liabilities. Careful estate planning can help reduce the amount of tax payable, ensuring more of your wealth goes to your loved ones.

5️⃣ Is Your Will Stored Safely?

Once updated, make sure your Will is stored securely and that your executors know where to find it. Heringtons Solicitors can securely store your Will for you, ensuring it is protected and easily accessible when needed.

How to Update Your Will

If you need to make changes, it’s important to do so correctly. Making handwritten changes or amending your Will without legal advice could invalidate it.

You have two main options:

🔹 A Codicil – A legal document that makes minor amendments to your existing Will.

🔹 A New Will – Recommended if you have significant changes to make. Once a new Will is signed and witnessed, it replaces any previous versions.