Why you need a will how to write one and leave a legacy

Have you written a will? 

It’s one of those many things in life we know we need to do, but it seems too complicated and let’s be honest, it’s often uncomfortable talking or even thinking about death.

But a will is something everyone should have. When you write a will, it saves your loved ones time, money and stress when you die. It determines who will manage your estate, who gets your assets and property and even who will take care of your children.

What happens if you don’t have a will? 

You might think you don’t need one. Perhaps you don’t have children or you don’t own your home. But did you know a will can also include instructions for your funeral? It can lessen the potential for family disputes, determine what happens to any pets you own and allow you to leave a gift to charity. In short, having a will gives you peace of mind.

Still not convinced? You might be when you find out what happens if you don’t have a will and the unexpected happens. When a person dies without a valid will, their assets will be distributed according to intestacy laws. This means it will be divided among relatives as determined by law. If you are unmarried, asset distribution could exclude unmarried partners completely. This could lead to people you wouldn’t choose inheriting your estate. Not having a will also means you lose the ability to choose guardians for your children.

How to write a will – step-by-step

So, how do you write one? While it is perfectly legal to write your own will, it must meet certain requirements, so it’s advisable to seek professional help. You might be surprised to learn it’s straightforward and inexpensive. The cost varies depending on whether you write it yourself, use a will writing service or get a solicitor to write your will.

You can even write your will for free using Farewill: a will writing company which Demelza has partnered with. Simply enter the code “DEMELZA2” at the checkout when you visit the website .

If you do speak with a professional, they will guide you on what you need to do. This will include advising you to:

• Make a list of your assets, such as any property, savings and valuable or sentimental personal items. These make up what is known as your estate. 
  
  
• Decide who you want to inherit your assets. This can be anyone – family members, friends or charities. The people or organisations you choose are known as beneficiaries and your will must clearly state what you wish each beneficiary to receive.
  
  
• Appoint an executor for your will. This can be almost anyone over the age of 18, such as a family member, friend, solicitor or professional executor. They will be responsible for carrying out your wishes as written in your will.
  
  
• Name a guardian for your children. A guardian is the person who will care for your children (under the age of 18) in the event of your death.

How does Demelza benefit if I choose to leave a legacy?

Leaving a gift in your will is one of the most valuable and lasting ways you can support Demelza. Your gift would help Demelza continue to make a difference for generations to come.

If after you have remembered your loved ones, you would like to kindly consider leaving Demelza a gift, we would be extremely grateful.

Start your will today - it's free and simple

Use Demelza’s free will writing service - visit Farewill and enter code DEMELZA2 at checkout