Legal matters - wills
It is a good idea to make a will for your own peace of mind and to ensure you have provided for the people you wish to benefit. Unless you do, the intestacy rules apply and your money and property may pass to relatives with whom you are out of touch. It is also a way of having your wishes carried out as to the manner of your funeral arrangements.
Planning your will
- A will must be written in precise legal terms and for this reason it is best to seek legal advice.
- When you have chosen a legal advisor it is a good idea to prepare in advance of your appointment a check list of personal details.
- Assets are the valuables you have – house, car, insurances, jewellery and so on and liabilities are what you still owe, your mortgage, overdraft, loans and so on.
- You will also need to give some thought about what you wish to leave to people or organisations in the form of a legacy, and to whom you wish to leave it.
- Executors are appointed to ensure that your wishes are carried out – your solicitor will be able to advise you. You will first need to ask the people you have in mind if they are willing.
- Once made, keep your will safe – it can be lodged with the solicitor or bank.
Changing your will
It is important to keep your will current and to change it if circumstances change – this should be done through your solicitor to ensure the legality
Keep a record of your personal documents in a safe place and include your solicitor’s contact details, the names of your executors and any instructions you may have about funeral arrangements and what to do with your pet.
Local support
National support
- Help the Aged: free will Advice for over 60s from Help the Aged 020 7239 1965. Senior Line 0800 6500 65 .For hard of hearing 080026 96 96 minicom
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