New Year, New Will?

The new year is always an excellent time to write or to review your will. In this article, we take a look at some of the things you should consider.

Have you made a will? 
Recent research by Royal London determined that 54% of UK adults do not have a will. This includes 59% of parents who either do not have a will or have one that does not accurately reflect their wishes. If you have not made a will, you have no control over what happens to your assets after you pass away. If you have children, own property, have savings or investments, or run a business, making a will is particularly important.

Does your will still accurately reflect your wishes?
If your circumstances have changed this year, you should update your will to reflect those changes. Perhaps you have changed career, moved home, got married or divorced, or welcomed a new baby to the family. In any of these circumstances, you should update your will to ensure it is reflective of your current situation.

Do you need to change your beneficiaries or executors?
Many people need to change the people that are named in their will for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you have outlived executors or beneficiaries named on your will, or maybe the relationship has deteriorated. In this case, you would need to replace them in your will to avoid complications in the event of your death.

Have your business interests changed?
If your business interests have changed significantly, now might be a good time to review both your will and your succession plan for your business.

Do you wish to take advantage of Inheritance Tax planning?
It is always advisable to review your will and estate regularly in line with current tax legislation, reliefs and opportunities to save on Inheritance Tax. Reviewing your affairs can be a great way to start the year. It allows you to understand where you are financially, and to effectively make plans for the future, knowing that your will is up to date.

If you would like a free initial consultation to discuss your will with one of our team contact us on 01244 356 789 or email info@cullimoredutton.co.uk.

Please note: This is not legal advice; it is intended to provide information of general interest about current legal issues.