Wills & Estate Basics

A will says who gets what, who looks after children, and who sorts out your affairs. Without one, the intestacy rules decide — which may not match your wishes, and unmarried partners can be left with nothing.

A will must be signed and properly witnessed; marriage or divorce can revoke or affect it. Review it after big life events (children, property, relationships). Free or low-cost will-writing schemes exist at certain times of year (e.g. charity will months).

An LPA lets someone you trust make decisions if you lose capacity — one for property & finances, one for health & welfare. Setting it up while well avoids costly court applications later.

From 2027/28, unused pension pots start counting toward your estate for Inheritance Tax — a meaningful change for estate planning that's worth watching. As ever, this module educates only; for a plan, use a solicitor or regulated adviser.