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Have You Made a Will? Money Wise IFA Ltd Can Help.
According to a study by Standard Life, more than half of British adults don’t have a will, thus putting
their heirs at risk of paying hefty legal bills to untangle estates.
The research found that nearly two‐thirds of 35‐44‐year‐olds didn’t have a will, while two‐fifths of 45
to 54 year‐olds, a third of 55 to 64 year‐olds and more than a fifth of over 65s were without a will.
Money Wise IFA Ltd will ensure that your assets are shared in the way that you would like. If you’re
an unmarried couple, you can make sure your partner is provided for and if divorced, you can decide
whether to leave anything to your former partner.
The research found that more than half of those without a will claimed they just hadn’t got round to
doing it yet. This figure increases to 79% for those in the 55 to 64 age bracket and almost a half for
over 65s.
The research also found that nearly a third of those with a will had not reviewed it in the past three
to ten years, with one in ten not having looked at it in more than a decade, despite changes to the
inheritance tax rules being introduced in 2006 and 2007.
Although it is possible to write a will yourself, there are various legal formalities you need to follow
to make sure that your will is valid and Money Wise IFA Ltd can ensure that these safeguards are in
place. Importantly, employing the services of Money Wise can ensure the process is smooth and that
you don’t pay more inheritance tax than necessary.
Money Wise IFA Ltd recommends these useful points to consider when making a will.
• Begin by taking some time to think about what you want to include in your will, look
at how much money and what property and possessions you have. Crucially, think
about whom you want to benefit from your will and who is best placed to look after
your children if under the age of 18
• Also consider who you would like to sort out your estate and carry out your wishes
after your death. You can appoint an executor at any time by naming them in your
will

2. • In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, two witnesses are required to be present
when a will is signed and they must have no beneficial interest as this could make it
invalid
• Remember once you’ve made your will it’s important to keep it in a safe place and tell
your executor, close friend or relative where it is
• You should also consider reviewing it every five years and after any major change in
your life – such as separation, marriage, divorce, having a child or moving house
If you are looking to make or review your will, contact your usual Money Wise adviser or email us on
enquiries@money‐wise.co.uk and we will be happy to put you in touch with one of our trusted
solicitor relationships.