The Short Answer
If you own anything, have children, or have people who depend on you, you need a will. Without one, the law decides who gets what — and it might not match your wishes.
What Happens Without a Will (Intestacy)
In England and Wales, intestacy rules apply. Your spouse gets the first £322,000 plus personal possessions, then half the remainder. The rest goes to your children.
Unmarried partners get nothing. This catches many cohabiting couples by surprise.
When You Definitely Need One
- You have children (to appoint guardians).
- You're not married but live with a partner.
- You own property.
- You have specific wishes about who gets what.
- You want to minimise Inheritance Tax.
- You have a business.
What Goes in a Will
- Who gets what (beneficiaries).
- Who looks after your children (guardians).
- Who manages the process (executors).
- Funeral wishes (optional but helpful).
- Trusts for children under 18.
How to Make One
DIY online
£30–100. Fine for simple situations with no property or dependants.
Solicitor
£200–500. Recommended if you have property, children, or complex assets.
Will-writing service
£100–300. A mid-range option between DIY and a solicitor.
Review your will every 3–5 years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Will + Lasting Power of Attorney + ICE Letter
A will covers what happens after you die. A Lasting Power of Attorney covers what happens if you lose capacity while alive. An In Case of Emergency letter tells your family where everything is.
You ideally need all three.