Your 20s and 30s: Building Foundations
In the early stages of adulthood, it’s easy to think a Will can wait. But if you’ve bought a home, started saving, or have dependents (even pets), you already have an estate worth protecting. A Will ensures your assets go to the people or causes that matter most and appoints trusted executors to carry out your wishes. For new parents, it’s also where you can name legal guardians, one of the most crucial decisions for your children’s future.
Key reason: Protect your first assets and choose who will care for your children.
Your 40s and 50s: Family and Financial Growth
This is often the busiest period of life, careers progress, families grow, and assets multiply. You may own property, have life insurance, investments, or a business. At this stage, your Will becomes a vital financial tool. It can help manage inheritance tax planning, ensure your spouse or partner is protected, and outline clear wishes for how your estate should be distributed.
Key reason: Avoid conflict and ensure your estate passes smoothly and tax-efficiently to your loved ones.
Your 60s and Older: Securing Your Legacy
Retirement often brings time for reflection and for many, the chance to formalise the legacy you’ll leave behind. Whether you wish to provide for children and grandchildren, donate to charity, or leave gifts in memory of loved ones, a well-structured Will ensures your values live on. You may also want to consider Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) to protect your financial and health decisions should you become unable to make them yourself.
Key reason: Ensure your legacy reflects your life’s work, beliefs, and relationships.
Major Life Changes When to Review Your Will
Even outside of age milestones, certain life events should trigger an update to your Will:
- Marriage or divorce;
- The birth of a child or grandchild;
- Buying or selling a property;
- Starting or closing a business;
- Changes to your financial situation;
- Moving abroad or acquiring assets overseas; and/or
- The passing of a loved one or executor.
A simple review every few years ensures your Will still reflects your current life and wishes.
The Consequences of Not Having a Will
If you pass away without a Will (known as dying intestate), the law decides who inherits your estate, not you. This can lead to:
- Unintended beneficiaries your partner may not automatically inherit if you’re unmarried;
- Family disputes without clear instructions, loved ones may face unnecessary stress or conflict;
- Tax inefficiency, a lack of planning, can result in higher inheritance tax liabilities; and/or
- Delays and costs of estates without Wills often take longer and cost more to administer.
Creating a Will is the simplest way to protect those you love from unnecessary hardship.
How Lyons Bowe Can Help
Our experienced Wills and Probate team is here to make the process straightforward, personal, and stress-free. We’ll take the time to understand your life, your values, and your wishes, ensuring your Will not only meets legal standards but reflects who you are. Whether you’re writing your first Will or reviewing an existing one, Lyons Bowe can help you plan with confidence.
