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How to Make a Legally Valid Will in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your estate is handled according to your wishes. Yet, more than half of UK adults do not have a valid will in place. Without one, your assets will be divided under the rules of intestacy — and that may not reflect your intentions.
This guide will walk you through how to make a legally valid will in the UK, step-by-step, so you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your wishes are respected.
Why You Need a Will in the UK
A will is a legal document that sets out what happens to your money, property, possessions, and digital assets after your death.
Without it:
- Unmarried partners may inherit nothing
- Children under 18 could be placed with a court-appointed guardian
- Family disputes can arise, leading to costly legal battles
A valid will gives you control, ensures your loved ones are provided for, and makes the process easier for those left behind.
Step 1 – Value Your Estate
List everything you own (assets) and everything you owe (debts).
Assets may include:
- Property and land
- Bank and savings accounts
- Investments, pensions, and insurance payouts
- Vehicles, jewellery, and other valuables
- Digital assets (domain names, cryptocurrency, online accounts)
Debts may include:
- Mortgages
- Loans and credit cards
- Outstanding bills
Step 2 – Decide Who Inherits
Consider:
- Beneficiaries – who will receive your assets
- Specific gifts – items or sums of money you want to give to particular people or organisations
- Residuary estate – what’s left after debts, taxes, and specific gifts are distributed
Step 3 – Choose Executors and Guardians
- Executors manage your estate and carry out the terms of your will. Choose someone you trust who is organised and responsible.
- Guardians care for children under 18. If you don’t name them, the court will decide.
Step 4 – Plan for Inheritance Tax
Inheritance Tax (IHT) may be due on estates over the UK threshold. You can reduce or eliminate IHT by:
- Leaving assets to a spouse or civil partner (usually tax-free)
- Donating to charity
- Using trusts
- Making gifts more than seven years before your death
Step 5 – Write the Will
You can:
- Use a solicitor – best for complex estates or if you anticipate disputes
- Use a professionally drafted will template – ideal for straightforward estates and much more affordable
When using a template, make sure it’s compliant with UK law and tailored to your personal circumstances.
Step 6 – Sign and Witness Properly
For a will to be valid under UK law:
- You must be over 18 and of sound mind.
- It must be in writing.
- You must sign it in the presence of two witnesses.
- The witnesses must sign in your presence.
Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries — otherwise, gifts to them will be invalid.
Step 7 – Store Your Will Safely
Store your will where it’s secure but accessible:
- At home in a fireproof safe
- With your solicitor
- At the Probate Service’s will storage facility
Tell your executors where the original is kept.
Step 8 – Review and Update Your Will
Review your will after major life events such as:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth of a child or grandchild
- Buying or selling property
- Significant financial changes
Final Thoughts
Writing a legally valid will doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. By following these steps, you can protect your loved ones and make sure your wishes are respected.
Create Your Will Today
Our UK Will Template is professionally drafted, fully compliant with UK law, and easy to complete at home. Save hundreds in solicitor fees while ensuring your estate is in safe hands.
