4 Will Misconceptions Busted

Writing a will is definitely classified as one of those jobs no one gets excited about. It’s one of those things you know you should be doing and you do want to do, but you just never get around to it. And there it remains at the bottom of your to-do list.

We get it, it’s a serious, rather gloomy task to complete, but the truth is, it’s more than just another bit of life admin; it’s something that can make life much easier for your loved ones in the event of your death.

One main reason people put off writing a will is the many misconceptions about it. In this post, we’ll address some of those so you have a better idea of what isn’t true.

“I don’t really own much, so what’s the point?”

Many people think wills are only for people with money to leave or property to bequeath to loved ones.  But this couldn’t be further from the truth. But even if you have minimal savings, a rusty old car, or just some treasures you want a certain person to have, even if they have no monetary value, write a will. Because regardless of what you do or don’t think you have worth leaving to someone, if you don’t have a will, the law decides who gets what.

“Everything will just go to my partner anyway”

This isn’t always true, especially for couples who aren’t married. While married couples or civil partners often have some protection, it doesn’t automatically mean they get everything. And the law doesn’t actually recognise long-term partners the same way as you would expect. This is where a will is beneficial; it clears up any confusion and sets the records straight on who should get what, or more importantly, who doesn’t get certain things. 

“I can write it on a piece of paper”

You can, but it might not be legally binding; in fact, it probably won’t be legally binding, and people can contest it if they wish. Just because you have written down what you would like to happen in the event of your death, it doesn’t automatically mean your wishes will be honoured. That’s why getting a solicitor who can make life easier and make sure your will is completed correctly. Solicitors like Harper Macleod estates and will writing services, walk people through everything they need in their will so it’s legally binding and covers everything it needs to.

“Once it’s done, that’s it”

Not really, Life changes, family changes, your circumstances change. Nothing is permanent and nothing is forever, so it makes sense that writing a will isn’t a one-time and done kind of deal. It’s more like a checkpoint of where you are in your life at any given moment, and should be updated to reflect this. Whether you’re getting married or divorced, your family has grown, or you have outlived beneficiaries in your will, gone through a significant life event or even a change in your assets, you need to update your will so it’s accurate and representative of your wishes.