Making a will isn’t just a legal box to tick. It’s a vital step to ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected.
With new inheritance tax rules and increasingly complex family arrangements, having a valid will in 2025 / 2026 is more important than ever.
Erin Clarke, Associate and Solicitor in our Wills, Trusts and Probate team at Bromleys, outlines why making a will is essential, describes the potential consequences of not having one, and provides guidance on how to begin the drafting process.
Why does a will matter?
A will gives you the power to decide what happens to your money, property, and possessions after you pass away. Without one, UK intestacy laws take over and they often don’t reflect modern family life.
For example:
- Unmarried partners and stepchildren inherit nothing if you die without a will.
- Your estate follows a strict legal hierarchy, starting with your spouse or civil partner, then children, then other relatives.
What happens if you don’t make a will?
Under current intestacy rules:
- Your spouse or civil partner receives £322,000 plus personal possessions.
- The remainder is split between your spouse and your children.
- If you’re unmarried, your partner gets nothing, even if you’ve lived together for years.
This can lead to disputes, delays, and extra costs. Probate cases taking over a year have surged by 518% since 2019, leaving families in limbo.
Common questions about wills
Q: Do I need a solicitor?
A: You can write your own will, but mistakes can make it invalid. A solicitor ensures it’s legally sound and tailored to your circumstances.
Q: Can I include digital assets?
A: Yes. In 2025, 39% of people include online accounts or cryptocurrency in their wills. Planning for these is essential.
Q: When should I update my will?
A: After major life changes, marriage, divorce, children, property purchases or simply every few years to keep it current.
What changed in 2025?
- From 6 April 2025, UK inheritance tax moved to a residence-based system.
- If you’ve lived in the UK for 10 of the last 20 years, your worldwide assets could be taxed at 40% above £325,000.
- Even if you leave the UK, liability can continue for up to 10 years.
- Planning ahead with a will can help you manage these changes and reduce stress for loved ones.
How Bromleys Solicitors can help
Our experienced Wills, Trusts & Probate team offers clear, friendly advice to make the Will drafting process simple and easy to navigate.
Call us today on 0161 330 6821 or email bromleys@bromleys.co.uk and see how we can help.