Creating a will is something many people intend to do, but often put off. Whether it’s due to uncertainty, the misconception that it’s only for the elderly, or simply procrastination, delaying this crucial task can lead to serious consequences for your loved ones. In the UK, preparing your will doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. A legal will kit offers a simple, affordable way to make your wishes clear and legally binding https://yourwillandtestament.com/products/legal-will-kit.
In this article, we explore the risks of delaying your will, the benefits of acting now, and how a will kit can help you take control of your legacy.
The Reality of Dying Without a Will in the UK
Dying without a valid will is known as dying intestate, and in the UK, this means the government decides how your estate is distributed. This can lead to outcomes that don’t reflect your intentions.
Potential outcomes include:
- Your spouse or civil partner may not inherit everything you intended.
- Unmarried partners and stepchildren may receive nothing at all.
- Family disputes can arise due to unclear intentions.
- The process of managing your estate becomes longer and more stressful for loved ones.
Having a will ensures that your assets, property, and possessions go to the people you choose—not those chosen by legal default.
Common Reasons People Delay Creating a Will
Understanding why people delay making a will can help you avoid falling into the same trap. Some common reasons include:
- Believing you’re too young or healthy
- Thinking you don’t have enough assets
- Feeling overwhelmed by legal processes
- Not knowing where to start
- Assuming it’s expensive
The good news? None of these reasons hold up under scrutiny, especially with modern DIY solutions available.
Why Now Is the Best Time to Create a Will
No matter your age or financial situation, now is always the best time to plan ahead. The benefits of creating a will early far outweigh the risks of waiting.
1. Protect Your Family and Loved Ones
Creating a will gives you the power to:
- Decide who inherits your property and money
- Appoint guardians for your children
- Ensure vulnerable family members are looked after
- Avoid unnecessary family disputes
A will ensures that your loved ones are supported according to your exact wishes.
2. Gain Peace of Mind
Knowing your affairs are in order brings peace of mind—for you and your family. Life is unpredictable, and having your will in place means you’ve done everything possible to prepare for the unexpected.
3. Avoid Government Decisions About Your Estate
Without a will, the rules of intestacy determine how your estate is divided. These rules may not align with your personal relationships or preferences, especially if you have:
- Children from multiple relationships
- A long-term partner you’re not legally married to
- Close friends or charities you wish to support
A legal will ensures your voice is heard, even after you’re gone.
The Benefits of Using a Will Kit
A legal will kit is an accessible and affordable way to draft your will without needing a solicitor. It allows you to express your wishes clearly and legally, in the comfort of your own home.
Key advantages include:
- Low cost compared to hiring a solicitor
- Straightforward instructions that anyone can follow
- Convenience of completing it in your own time
- Immediate access, whether online or in print
For those with simple estates and clear intentions, a will kit is often the ideal solution.
What Happens If You Keep Delaying?
Delaying your will might seem harmless now, but it can have long-term consequences:
1. Your Children May Be Left Without Legal Guardians
If you have minor children and don’t appoint guardians, the court decides who takes responsibility. This might not align with your values or your children’s best interests.
2. Your Estate May Take Longer to Process
Without a will, probate becomes a longer and more complicated process. Loved ones could face unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.
3. Your Wishes May Never Be Known
If your intentions aren’t written down, no one can assume what you would have wanted. This can lead to disappointment, confusion, and legal disputes.
Who Should Get a Will Kit?
Many people assume wills are only for the elderly or wealthy, but this isn’t true. A will kit is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:
- Young adults with savings or property
- Parents with children under 18
- Couples with shared assets
- Individuals who want to leave gifts to friends or charities
- People in blended families
If any of these describe you, there’s no better time than now to take action.
What to Include in Your Will
Whether you write your will using a kit or through a solicitor, your document should include:
- Your full name and address
- Details of your beneficiaries
- Specific instructions about who gets what
- Names of guardians for any dependent children
- Appointment of an executor (person who will manage your estate)
- Signatures of two witnesses
Completing these sections correctly ensures your will is valid and enforceable.
Updating Your Will
Life changes—and so should your will. It’s important to update your will after major events such as:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Death of a beneficiary or executor
- Acquiring or selling property
- Changes in personal relationships
A good will kit allows you to make updates or even start fresh if necessary.
Where to Store Your Will
Once your will is complete, store it in a safe, accessible place. You can keep it:
- In a fireproof safe at home
- With a trusted family member
- At your bank
- Registered with a will storage service
Make sure your executor knows where it is and how to access it when needed.
The Cost of Doing Nothing
It’s easy to assume you’ll have plenty of time to deal with your estate later—but life is unpredictable. The longer you delay, the higher the risk of:
- Dying intestate (without a will)
- Family conflict and confusion
- Delayed inheritance and probate issues
- Unintended people receiving your estate
For a small investment of time and money, you can eliminate all these risks today.
Summary: Why You Should Act Now
| Reason | Benefit |
| Protect your loved ones | Avoid disputes and provide clear instructions |
| Control your legacy | Decide who inherits and how |
| Save time and money | Avoid costly legal fees and delays |
| Peace of mind | Know that your affairs are in order |
| Simple and accessible | Use a will kit from home with clear instructions |
Final Thoughts
Delaying your will may seem harmless, but it can lead to unnecessary stress, expense, and heartbreak for those you leave behind. Taking action today—especially with the help of a legal will kit—ensures that your loved ones are cared for, your wishes are honoured, and your legacy is preserved.
You don’t need a complex estate or legal training to create a valid will. With the right tools and a little time, you can take control of your future and give your family the gift of peace and clarity.