Why do I need a Will?

Many people assume that when they die, all their worldly possessions will go to the people they want, yet this is often not the case.

If you die without a Will, your estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules can direct your assets to people you may not have wanted to benefit. In some cases, this could be the Crown. With family structures now more complex than ever, inheritance, guardianship and long-term care may need specialist advice.

Here are just some of the reasons it is worth taking the time to make a Will online...

Ensure your loved ones are financially cared for after your passing

By making a Will, you can clearly outline who will inherit your hard-earned assets - you can also deliberately exclude people you do not wish to benefit from your estate, as long as they are not financially dependent on you.

When you make a Will online, this process is simple and straightforward.

Nominate Executors to carry out your wishes

When you write a Will you must appoint one or more executors to handle your affairs when you die.
Administering an estate can often be simple and straightforward. As a result, this is normally a job for your adult children, relatives, or a friend (preferably someone you trust to administer your estate according to your wishes).

Protection for unmarried partners and step-children

According to the rules of intestacy, unmarried partners do not inherit from your estate – no matter how long you’ve been together. The same applies to relations by marriage, for example, step-children.

If you want an unmarried partner or step-child to inherit, you need to write a Will.

Appoint legal Guardians for minor children

If you have children under 18, it is important to outline your legal guardianship wishes within a Will. Failing to do this could mean that the courts decide who will care for your children.

Save time, money and stress for the ones you leave behind

Without a Will, it can be a long and complicated process for your loved ones to distribute your assets. They may need to pay for professional help or experience family disputes.

When you make a Will online, you reduce stress for those closest to you at an already difficult time.

Ensure pets are cared for

Pets are family, so choose someone you trust to look after them when you are gone - you can even leave money to fund their care.

Funeral Wishes

In a Will, you can specify your funeral wishes. For instance, whether you want to be buried or cremated - you can even choose a sentimental location for your ashes to be scattered. As it is the responsibility of your chosen executors, often your loved ones, to plan the funeral, they will look for guidance in your Will. While funeral wishes within a Will may not be legally binding, they will carry a moral obligation, which your executors will likely want to fulfil.

Leave a legacy or gift to a charity

When you make a Will online with ELM, you may want to leave a percentage of your estate, or a specific gift, to a charity of your choice. Donations left to charities within Wills are vital to their work.

It is also worth noting that if you have no Will and no living relatives, your estate may pass to the Crown. Many people would prefer to leave their estate to a charity close to their heart.

We are trusted by our clients

We take the drama out of making a Will, but don’t just take our word for it...

     Good  
     Based on 112 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Nicholas Pride 
 2023-08-03
 
 
  I have a 'Perpetual Will' with ELM Legal Services. When it became  necessary for an update, ELM carried out the process in a helpful and competent manner, at no extra cost. I have no complaints.
  
 
       
   Julie Prosser 
 2023-04-13
 
 
  Excellent professional company. Very knowledgeable and easy to deal with.
  
 
       
   Teresa Elder 
 2023-02-18
 
 
  Refered by my daughter and no complaints so far.
  
 
       
   Adam Holmes 
 2023-02-09
 
 
  So easy and straightforward, thank you
  
 
       
   Faudhia Malesa 
 2023-02-02
 
 
  Five Stars - looked after me and my husband, who needed convinicing again by watching the replay of the masterclass, stratergy session went well, no hard sell, listened and was able to answer all our questions
  
 
       
   Rob Mayne 
 2023-01-25
 
 
  Very quick and painless process would defiantly recommend this company from start to finish helped us understand what we needed to do and why. Thanks for your information and help setting up Wills & Trusts.
  
 
       
   Kerry Dubose 
 2023-01-09
 
 
  Thought my wife would inherit everything but it is not the case which I found out in the stratergy session. Very helpful and understaning. Documents arrived on time and we had another online meeting to go through it all. Brilliant service
  
 
       
   Michael Cox 
 2023-01-01
 
 
  Postman has just deliverd our Trust Deeds and we have now signed them and will return them today, nice packaging and simple process
  
 
       
   Sue Addison 
 2022-12-12
 
 
  Excellent service throughout all the process. Staff extremely helpful. Great company would definitely recommend them

We are specialists

We are a specialist Will Writing, Probate & Trusts company. This is all that we do. As a result, we're able to provide the highest quality service possible - something that is reflected in our fantastic customer reviews.

Over 20+ years experience

ELM was established in 2000 and has been providing a professional and reliable service ever since. We are members of the Institute of Professional Will Writers and our in-house training development plan means all our employees achieve industry-recognised qualifications.

We have helped over 30,000 people

We have helped over 30,000 people to complete their Wills, leaving them safe in the knowledge that their family’s interests have been properly protected.

Free no-obligation enquiries

Because everyone's circumstances are different, we offer free no-obligation enquiries, ensuring you get a personalised service that meets your specific needs.