Click each checkbox to mark items as complete. Your progress is automatically saved to your browser. Use this checklist to verify every requirement before, during, and after creating your codicil.
✅ Preparing Your Codicil
1. Draft a new codicil: Ensure you include all legally required elements to properly amend your existing will
2. Review an existing codicil: Audit your current codicil against all 38 compliance points before signing
3. Determine if appropriate: Assess whether your changes require a codicil or a completely new will
⚠️ What Is a Codicil?
📋 Definition: A codicil is a legal supplement to an existing will that makes specific amendments without replacing the entire will. It must be executed with the same formalities as the original will under the Wills Act 1837.
⚖️ Legal Status: A properly executed codicil becomes part of your will. Multiple codicils can exist, but too many can cause confusion - consider making a new will instead.
🎯 When Appropriate: Minor changes like changing an executor, updating a gift amount, or adding a beneficiary. NOT appropriate for major restructuring of your estate.
💼 Important Note: A codicil must clearly reference your original will by date and identify any previous codicils. It must be properly witnessed just like a will.
🔵 Understanding Importance Levels
🔴 Critical: Should have — required under Wills Act 1837
🟡 Important: Should have — protects against disputes
🔵 Recommended: Nice to have — best practice for clarity
Confirm Codicil Is Appropriate
A codicil is suitable for minor amendments: changing an executor, updating a gift, adding a beneficiary, correcting errors. For major changes (restructuring entire estate, multiple significant amendments, or if you already have 2+ codicils), make a new will instead to avoid confusion.
🔴 Critical
Original Will Is Still Valid
Confirm your original will is still legally valid and hasn't been revoked by marriage, a later will, or destruction. Marriage automatically revokes a will in England and Wales unless made "in contemplation of marriage." You cannot create a codicil to an invalid will.
🔴 Critical
Original Will Is Accessible
You have access to your original will and know its exact date of execution. The codicil must specifically reference this date. If you cannot locate your original will or are unsure of its date, you should make a new will instead.
🟡 Important
Full Legal Name
Your complete legal name exactly as it appears on your original will. If your name has changed since making the will (marriage, divorce, deed poll), include both names: "Jane Smith (formerly Jane Brown)" to maintain clear connection to the original will.
🔴 Critical
Current Residential Address
Your full current address. This may differ from the address on your original will if you've moved. The current address helps identify you and establishes which country's laws apply to the codicil.
🔴 Critical
Testamentary Capacity
You must have testamentary capacity when making the codicil - understand the nature of making a codicil, the extent of your estate, and the effect of your amendments. If there are concerns about capacity, consider obtaining a medical assessment.
🔴 Critical
Original Will Date Specified
The exact date your original will was executed. This is the date you signed the will, not when it was drafted. The codicil must reference this date to clearly identify which will is being amended. Format: "my Will dated [day] [month] [year]".
🔴 Critical
Declaration This Is a Codicil
Clear statement that this document is a codicil to your will: "I DECLARE this to be the [First/Second/etc.] Codicil to my Will dated [date]." This establishes the document's purpose and its relationship to your existing will.
🔴 Critical
Codicil Number (Ordinal)
Is this your First, Second, Third, or Fourth Codicil? Codicils must be numbered sequentially. If this is your first amendment to the will, it's the "First Codicil." If you already have one codicil, this new one is the "Second Codicil."
🔴 Critical
Previous Codicils Identified
If you have made previous codicils to this will, each one must be referenced by date. The new codicil should state: "...my Will dated [date] as amended by a Codicil dated [date]..." This creates a clear chain of amendments.
🔴 Critical
Check for Conflicting Amendments
Review any previous codicils to ensure this new codicil doesn't conflict with them. If there are conflicts, you may need to explicitly revoke conflicting provisions in previous codicils, or consider making a new will to start fresh.
🟡 Important
Consider Making New Will Instead
If you already have 2 or more codicils, or if this codicil combined with previous ones makes understanding your testamentary wishes complicated, consider making a new will. Multiple codicils can confuse executors and increase the risk of errors during probate.
🔵 Recommended
⚡
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Original Executor Clearly Identified
If replacing or removing an executor, clearly identify them by full name as they appear in the original will. Example: "I REVOKE the appointment of John Smith as executor" or "In place of Mary Jones as executor..."
🔴 Critical
New Executor Full Details
For new or replacement executors, include: full legal name, current address, and relationship to you (e.g., "my nephew", "my solicitor"). Clear identification prevents confusion during probate.
🔴 Critical
Executor Has Agreed to Act
Has the new executor agreed to act? While not legally required, it's best practice to confirm their willingness. An unwilling executor can renounce, potentially leaving your estate without appointed representation.
🔵 Recommended
Original Provision Clearly Referenced
When amending beneficiary provisions, clearly identify what you're changing. Reference the specific clause or gift: "The gift of £10,000 to my cousin James Brown in Clause 4 of my Will is hereby revoked..." Vague references cause disputes.
🔴 Critical
New Beneficiary Full Details
For new or replacement beneficiaries, include: full legal name, address, and relationship to you. If adding a charity, include the charity's registered name and charity number to ensure the gift reaches the correct organization.
🔴 Critical
Share or Bequest Clearly Specified
Clearly state what the beneficiary receives: exact percentage of residue, specific monetary amount (in figures and words), or description of specific item. Ambiguous bequests lead to expensive legal disputes during probate.
🔴 Critical
Effect on Other Beneficiaries Considered
Does changing one beneficiary's share affect others? If you increase one person's percentage, you must reduce others. If adding a new residuary beneficiary, existing beneficiaries' shares may need recalculating. Check the maths.
🟡 Important
Original Gift Clearly Identified
When revoking or changing a specific gift, identify it precisely as described in the original will. Example: "I REVOKE the gift of my diamond engagement ring to my niece Sarah" or "The legacy of £5,000 to Cancer Research UK is hereby increased to £10,000."
🔴 Critical
New Gift Details Complete
For new or changed gifts: describe the item clearly with identifying features (make, model, serial number if applicable), specify the recipient with full name and address, and state any conditions. Vague descriptions cause disputes.
🟡 Important
Item Still Owned Consideration
If adding a specific gift, will you still own this item at death? Specific gifts fail (ademption) if you no longer own the item. Consider whether a general gift ("a car" vs "my BMW registration XX00 XXX") might be more appropriate.
🔵 Recommended
Original Guardian Identified
If replacing a guardian, identify them by the name used in your original will. State clearly: "I REVOKE the appointment of [name] as guardian of my minor children and in their place appoint..."
🔴 Critical
New Guardian Full Details
New guardian's full legal name, current address, and relationship to your children (e.g., "my sister", "children's godparent"). Include contact details to help locate them. The guardian must be aged 18 or over.
🔴 Critical
New Guardian Has Agreed
Has the new guardian agreed to act? Being named as guardian is a significant responsibility. Discuss your wishes, parenting values, and any financial provisions you're making for your children's care.
🟡 Important
⚡
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Clause to Revoke Precisely Identified
If revoking a specific clause from your will, identify it precisely by clause number or exact wording. Example: "I REVOKE Clause 7 of my Will which provided for..." or "I REVOKE the provision in my Will that stated '...'" Vague revocations may fail.
🔴 Critical
Effect of Revocation Understood
Understand what happens when a clause is revoked. Does it affect other provisions? Does it create a gap in your estate distribution? If revoking a gift, does it fall into residue or create partial intestacy? Consider the knock-on effects.
🟡 Important
New Clause Clearly Drafted
If adding an entirely new provision not in your original will, draft it clearly and completely. It should be able to stand alone as a complete clause. Example: "I ADD the following provision to my Will: 'I give the sum of £5,000 to...''"
🔴 Critical
New Clause Doesn't Conflict with Existing Will
Ensure the new clause doesn't contradict or create ambiguity with existing provisions in your will. If it does, you may need to expressly revoke or modify the conflicting provision in the same codicil.
🟡 Important
Confirmation of Rest of Will
Include a confirmation clause stating that except for the amendments made, you confirm all other provisions of your will remain in force. Standard wording: "IN ALL OTHER RESPECTS I confirm my said Will [and any previous Codicil(s)]."
🔴 Critical
Previous Codicils Referenced in Confirmation
If you have previous codicils, the confirmation clause should reference them: "IN ALL OTHER RESPECTS I confirm my said Will and the Codicil thereto dated [date]." This ensures all parts of your testamentary documents remain valid.
🟡 Important
Codicil Date Specified
The codicil must be dated with the date it is signed (executed). This date must be after the date of your original will and any previous codicils. The date establishes which document is most recent and when the amendments take effect.
🔴 Critical
Testator Signature Space
Clear space for your signature at the end of the codicil. Under Wills Act 1837, you must sign the codicil (or acknowledge your signature) in the presence of two witnesses who are both present at the same time. Sign in permanent ink.
🔴 Critical
Attestation Clause Included
Include an attestation clause confirming proper execution: "SIGNED by the above-named [your name] as the Testator's [First/Second/etc.] Codicil in our presence and then by us in the Testator's presence." This creates a presumption of due execution.
🔴 Critical
Codicil Kept with Original Will
Plan to store the executed codicil with your original will. They should be kept together so executors find both documents. Consider registering both with the National Will Register. Never attach a codicil to a will with a paperclip or staple through the will.
🟡 Important
Two Witnesses Required
A codicil must be witnessed by exactly two witnesses who are present together when you sign. Both witnesses must then sign in your presence. This is the same requirement as for a will under Wills Act 1837. Improper witnessing invalidates the codicil.
🔴 Critical
Witness Independence
Witnesses must NOT be beneficiaries under your will or codicil, nor their spouses/civil partners. If a beneficiary witnesses the codicil, they forfeit any gift they receive under the will or codicil. Witnesses must be aged 18+ and mentally capable.
🔴 Critical
Witness Details Recorded
Each witness should provide: signature, full name (printed), address, and occupation. This information helps locate witnesses if the codicil is challenged. Witnesses may need to provide affidavits during probate if there are questions about execution.
🔴 Critical
⚡
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Complete codicil template — all clauses included, professionally drafted.
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£15 — Own It Forever
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Next Steps
Now that you've reviewed the compliance checklist, you have two options:
✅ Use Our Ready-Made Codicil Template
Amend your will with our professionally drafted codicil template. Covers all 38 compliance points with clear guidance for amendments. Available in both Smart Interview (guided) and Classic Editor (direct editing) modes for just £15. Preview the full template with watermark before you buy. Get the template →
📝 Create Your Own Codicil
Use this checklist as your guide, but remember inputting wrong details can invalidate the codicil — e.g. failing to reference original will correctly invalidates entire document, missing confirmation clause leaves provisions unclear, wrong witnesses make it ineffective.
🔗
Official Government Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
General information about codicils to wills in the UK
Do I need a solicitor for a codicil?
Many complete straightforward codicils without one. Our template is based on UK law and includes clear guidance for standard amendments. Consider review for complex circumstances.
When should I make a new will instead of a codicil?
Consider a new will for major changes such as restructuring your entire estate, making multiple significant amendments, or if you already have 2+ codicils. A fresh will is clearer and reduces confusion.
How many codicils can I have?
While there's no legal limit, having more than 2-3 codicils can create confusion during probate. If you need multiple amendments, making a new will is generally clearer and more practical.
Does a codicil need the same formalities as a will?
Yes. A codicil is subject to the same execution requirements as a will under the Wills Act 1837. It must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by two independent witnesses who are present at the same time.
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Disclaimer: This checklist is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to keep information accurate and up to date, the law is complex and subject to change. Every situation is unique. Last updated: May 2026.
