A Will is a paper that says what should happen to your money and things after you die.
It is important to make one, even if you think you do not have much.
You can write a simple Will yourself.
But it is best to get help from a solicitor if:
Solicitors and Will writing services can cost a lot of money, but there are free options.
If you are aged 55 or over, you can get a simple Will written or updated for free.
Free Wills Month is a scheme run by charities. The charities help pay a local solicitor to write your Will.
There are only a small number of appointments each time, so you should sign up early.
Many charities can help you write or update your Will for free.
You can choose to leave the charity a gift in your Will, but you do not have to.
You can find a list of charities and solicitors offering will writing services on Leeds Directory.
Many people think their Will will be found when they die just because it exists.
But this does not always happen.
You can register your Will with The National Will Register,
This makes it much easier for your family or solicitor to find it when needed.
It costs £30 to register your Will.
This can help stop arguments and save your family money later.
It is a good idea to keep all your important papers in one safe place.
This helps others find them if they need to.
This includes:
You can also read more about planning for your digital legacy.
This includes:
You can also read more about planning for your financial digital legacy.
This includes:
This is only a starting point. You may want to add more.
If you have a pet, write down the name and address of your vet. Also write what you want to happen to your pet and how they should be looked after. You can also register you and your pet with a charity to ensure that someone will be there for your pet after you are gone.
Some people like to make plans for what happens after they die.
This can include planning their own funeral.
Not everyone wants to do this, and that is okay.
Planning a funeral can be simple.
Making plans can help your family and friends remember you in a special way.
You can choose what you want.
You can even pay for it before you die if you want to.
A funeral director is someone who helps plan and organise funerals.
They can give advice and help with costs.
There are many funeral directors.
Try to find one who listens to you and respects your choices.
You can find a funeral director on the National Association of Funeral Directors website.
Or you might know one already.
You do not have to choose everything the funeral director offers.
You can choose your own:
Some people choose the cemetery or crematorium first, then find a funeral director who works there.
You can ask to visit the place if you want.
You do not have to pick a place near your home.
You can choose any cemetery, crematorium, or natural burial ground.
