Making a will
Write your will
Your will should set out:
- who you want to benefit from your will
- who should look after any children under 18
- who is going to sort out your estate and carry out your wishes after your death (your executor)
- what happens if the people you want to benefit die before you
You can also include a charity in your will.
When you need legal advice
You can get advice from a professional if your will is not straightforward, for example:
- you share a property with someone who is not your husband, wife or civil partner
- you want to leave money or property to a dependant who cannot care for themselves
- you have several family members who may make a claim on your will, such as a second spouse or children from another marriage
- your permanent home is outside the UK
- you have property overseas
- you have a business
Find out how to choose a will writer.
Keep your will safe
You can keep your will at your home or store it with:
- your solicitor
- your bank
- a company that offers the storage of wills - you can search online
- the national probate registry in Newcastle
Read full guidance on storing your will with the Probate Service.
You should tell your executor (the person you’ve chosen to carry out your will), a close friend or relative where your will is.