Life changes that mean it’s time to update your Will

Writing a Will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out. But having a Will isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ task – it should reflect your current life circumstances.

As life changes, so should your Will. Here are some of the key moments when reviewing and updating your Will is essential.

1. Getting married or entering a civil partnership

Marriage automatically revokes any existing Will unless it was made with the marriage in mind. That means if you don’t update your Will after tying the knot, your estate may not go where you intended.

What to do Make a new Will that reflects your partner and any shared assets.

2. Divorce or separation

If you separate from or divorce your spouse, your existing Will remains valid – but your ex-partner may still inherit from you unless you update it. Even if you no longer want them to be a beneficiary, they could still be entitled to a share of your estate.

What to do Remove your former spouse from your Will if required and update beneficiaries accordingly.

3. Becoming a parent (or grandparent)

Having children is one of the most important reasons to write or update a Will. A Will allows you to name a legal guardian to care for your children if anything happens to you. Without a Will, the courts may decide who looks after them.

What to do Add guardianship arrangements and ensure your children are financially protected.

4. Buying a home or property

Owning property is a major asset, so it’s important to decide who will inherit it. If you have a mortgage or co-own with someone else, updating your Will can ensure your wishes are clear.

What to do Specify who will inherit your home and consider any inheritance tax implications.

5. A significant change in your finances

Whether you’ve received an inheritance, sold a business, or built up your savings, a financial change can impact how your assets are distributed. An outdated Will may not reflect your current wealth or tax situation.

What to do Update your Will to ensure your estate is distributed as you intend.

6. The loss of a beneficiary or executor

If someone named in your Will passes away or is no longer able to act as an executor, it’s important to update your Will to reflect this. Otherwise, your estate may be subject to legal complications.

What to do Appoint new beneficiaries or executors as needed.

7. Changing your mind about who inherits

Your relationships and priorities may change over time. If you no longer wish to leave something to a specific person, or if you want to add new beneficiaries – including charities – you should update your Will to reflect your current wishes.

What to do Review your Will every few years to ensure it still aligns with your values and intentions.

8. Wanting to leave a charitable gift

Many people choose to leave a gift to charity in their Will as a way to create a lasting legacy. Even a small percentage of your estate can make a huge difference to the causes you care about. If you decide to leave a gift to a charity like MS-UK, updating your Will is the best way to ensure your wishes are carried out.

What to do: Speak to a solicitor about adding a charity to your Will.

How to update your Will

Updating your Will is easier than you might think. You don’t need to start from scratch – small changes can be made using a legal amendment called a codicil. However, if your circumstances have changed significantly, it may be best to create a new Will.

MS-UK offers a free Will writing service through the National Free Wills Network, making it simple to update or create a Will at no cost.

Email Jill at jill@ms-uk.org, call 01206 226500, or click here to request your free Will writing pack today.