best will writing services uk

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10 of The Best Online Will Writing Services

Making a Will using an online Will-writing service is an excellent and simple way of securing the future of your estate. Online Will-writing services are affordable, easy to use, and can enable you to  write your Will  in as little as 10 minutes.

Age Space has compiled this helpful guide to some of the best online Will-writing services in the UK. This includes information about how each online Will-writing service works, how long the process takes, and how much you can expect to pay. We have also secured some exclusive discounts for Age Space users. 

• Which? Wills
• MakeAWillOnline
• Properwills
• ActiveWills
• LegalWills.co.uk
• Will Drafters Ltd
• Co-Op Legal Services

If you have a simple estate, then you can create a Will with Which? in as little as half an hour. Which? provide you with a simple guide to their Will-writing forms and process. You can fill these out in your own time and their dedicated support team are available by phone or email with any questions you have during the Will-writing process. 

Which? also operate a Review Service, ensuring that your Will is looked-over by one of their dedicated Will experts before you sign it to provide peace of mind that everything makes sense and is in order.

Prices start at £84 for a single Will, and £156 for a mirror Will. 

With our 15% discount you can also get your Will written and reviewed by an expert from only £72.00 

2. Make A Will Online

The process for producing a Will with Make A Will Online will only take between 5-10 minutes with one simple form. And its free to change for 28 days, so you don’t have to finalise it straight away. At the end of doing a single Will you are also able to add an additional Will for half the price of the first. 

Their website is simple, quick and easy to use and is perfect for busy people who would prefer to avoid expensive solicitor fees. What makes Make A Will Online extra special is that every Will has a qualified solicitor check it over after it has been created.

A single Will costs £60 and a pair of Wills costs £90. 

3. Properwills

Their step-by-step online questionnaire is sleek, easy to use and takes less than 15 minutes to complete. Each Will is checked by a legal expert and usually ready to sign in less than 48 hours, making them one of the fastest services in the UK. And if you can’t print your Will, Properwills offer to deliver it for free. 

We like that the process is very intuitive and easy to follow and that their support team is responsive and always happy to help. Included in the price is 5 years of free, unlimited updates to the Will. 

Their Wills cost £99 (or £149 for couples) and includes everything to get your Will(s) sorted, checked and sent to you. It’s a fixed fee service so you only pay this – no surprise fees down the line.

Age Space Exclusive : Get 12% off online when you use our discount code – “ AGESP12 ″

4. ActiveWills

Making an online Will through ActiveWills’ Will-writing service involves completing a simple online template devised by their expert estate-planning solicitors. You fill in each section, print the Will yourself, and then just need to get it signed and witnessed. There is a friendly chat facility if you need support whilst writing it. 

The process of writing an online Will through ActiveWills takes very little time, and you can have a simple Will put together in just 10 minutes! ActiveWills score 4.9 out of 5 on TrustPilot and with a Single Will costing £19.99 and a Mirror Will costing £29.99 they are one of the most affordable online Will-writing services. Plus you receive free lifetime storage of your legal documents.

The process of writing an online Will through ActiveWills takes very little time, and you can have a simple Will put together in just 10 minutes! ActiveWills score 4.9 out of 5 on TrustPilot and with a Single Will costing £19.99 and a Mirror Will costing £29.99  they are one of the most affordable online Will-writing services. Plus you receive free lifetime storage of your legal documents.

The process of writing an online Will through ActiveWills takes very little time, and you can have a simple Will put together in just 10 minutes! ActiveWills score 4.9 out of 5 on TrustPilot and with a Single Will costing £19.99  £9.99 and a Mirror Will costing £29.99 £14.99 they are one of the most affordable online Will-writing services. Plus you receive free lifetime storage of your legal documents.

50% Spring Discount for Age Space readers! Until 18th April Active Wills are offering Age Space readers Will writing at £9.99 for Single Wills and £14.99 for Mirror Wills. Click the link below to get this deal!

5. Farewill

Writing your Will with Farewill is a quick and easy process, taking as little as 15 minutes. You can choose to create your Will either by answering some questions online, or with one of their friendly team of experts over the phone. Whichever method you choose, their helpful support team are available to you every step of the way. Farewill then finalise your Will in under 5 working days, and send it to you to sign in front of witnesses. 

Farewill are rated 4.9 out of 5 by over 13,000 happy customers on Trustpilot, and were awarded the National Will Writing Firm of the Year award at the British Wills and Probate Awards 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. The price for making an online Will with Farewill costs £100 (£160 for couples) and making a Will over the phone costs £240 (£380 for couples). Farewill also have an optional £10 a year update service, meaning you can make unlimited updates to your Will throughout the rest of your life.

Age Space Exclusive:  Get 15% off your Will when you use our discount code – “agespace15”

6. LegalWills.co.uk

To make a Will online at LegalWills.co.uk, you answer a series of questions about your wishes, spanning 9 different sections. Their Will experts can offer help at each step of the online Will-making process, to make sure your wishes are being met.   LegalWills.co.uk can produce a Last Will and Testament from £39.95. You also have the option to request that your Will is looked over by one of their expert solicitors for an additional cost of £50.00 

An advantage of using the LegalWills.co.uk service is that they allow you to make unlimited updates to your Will, free of charge. Age Space Exclusive : Save 10% when you buy a Will using the link below

Beyond’s online Will-writing service can take as little as 15 minutes to answer a series of key questions. Beyond then puts together your fully-legal Will for you. Their online support team provide live support throughout the Will-writing process, ensuring you get everything right. Every Will that is created with Beyond is checked over by their in-house legal expert. Once you are happy with the Will all you need to do is print and sign it in front of two witnesses.

Making an online single Will with Beyond costs £90, and you pay only when you print and sign. Wills for couples cost £135, meaning you save money compared to purchasing two separate Wills.

The process of writing a Will online with Kwil takes just 30 minutes, and you don’t have to pay anything until you’re happy to print and sign. All you need to do is answer some qualifying questions and work your way through their step-by-step process for putting the Will together. Kwil has a very helpful Online Lockbox Service in which you can securely store all of the information your executor may need once you die,

including details about your bank accounts, credit cards, pensions etc. The Kwil will-writing service costs £90 for individuals, and £120 for couples. Any amendments in the first year are free, and there is an optional £10 annual fee per person to be able to update the Will anytime after that.

9. Will Drafters Ltd.

Will Drafters Ltd’s Will writing service is conducted over the phone and a good choice for those who prefer communicating in person rather than using online forms. Following an initial conversation, their specialist legal team will prepare and mail you your Will to sign. Will Drafters Ltd have helped over 100,000 customers to write their Will online since 1990. 

Their prices start at £43 for a single, simple Will, and they also offer a WillPlus service which includes free lifetime storage and the ability to make unlimited updates to your Will.

10. Co-Op Legal Services

With Co-Op Legal Services you just need to answer some quick questions online, and then speak on the phone to one of their Will-writers who will help you to put together the final document. Once the Will is ready, they will post you a copy to sign in front of your witnesses. Co-op Legal Services was named as the National Will Writing Firm of the Year in 2018. 

They operate a fixed fee service, meaning that once they’ve quoted you a price there are no nasty surprises later down the line. The price for a single Will from Co-Op Legal Services starts at £150, and Mirror Wills cost from £245.

FAQs on How to Make a Will Online

How long does it take to make a will online.

In most cases, writing a Will online does not take very long. If you have a simple estate then making the will can take as little as 10 minutes, but it will take longer the more complicated your Will is. Some online Will-writing services require a few days for their legal experts to look over the online Will before you are able to sign it.

How much does an online Will cost?

The cost of writing a Will online varies from provider to provider, and on the type of Will you are looking to buy. The starting cost for a simple Single Will can be as little as £19.99 as from Active Wills, but with other providers costs can start from over £100. Mirror Wills cost more than single Wills, but tend to be cheaper than the cost of 2 Single Wills.

Are online Wills legal in the UK?

Online Wills are legal in the UK, as long as they have been correctly signed and witnessed in line with UK law. Two witnesses, who are not beneficiaries of the Will, must sign and date it also. This can now be done  online .

Can I update a Will made online?

You can update a Will made online. Some providers allow you to opt-in to pay a small annual fee in order to make unlimited updates to your Will in the future. If you choose not to opt-in, you can still be able to make updates to your Will, but there will usually be a one-off cost on each occasion you make an update.

To enable Age Space to keep providing content for our readers, for some of the links on this page we receive a small commission if you decide to buy a Will with a provider. 

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Searching Money Mentor . . .

Best online will writers.

| Editor-at-large

Updated December 13, 2023

In this guide

If you have relatively simple financial affairs, then an online will could be a cheap and convenient option for you.

This guide looks what an online will writer is, who the service might be suitable for and lists our top picks.

In this article, we explain:

• What is an online will service?
• Who is it suitable for?
• What are the top online will writers?
• How are our ratings calculated?

Read more: Guide to wills

This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue *

What is an online will writing service?

Online will writing services allows those with simple financial affairs to write a legal will, quickly and simply, without the need for face-to-face meetings and expensive solicitors fees. It can offer greater peace of mind than a DIY will.

A number, such as Farewill use in-house legal experts to check over your will to ensure it’s written correctly and your wishes are clear.

Below, we cover in more detail what else the services offer, along with other online will writers that we rate highly, including Bequest, Bequeathed and Guardian Angel. Many services will also offer lasting power of attorney services.

Word of warning: an online will writer is not for everyone

An online will writing service is unlikely to be suitable if you have complicated affairs and inheritance tax issues, own your own business or you have remarried.

Online will writing services also aren’t authorised and regulated in England and Wales in the same way as solicitors.

Remember, once you have your written will, it will need to be signed and witnessed to make it legally binding.

Read more: Do I need a lawyer to make a will?

Want to watch rather than read? Tips for drawing up a will

This video lists the top tips on how to create your own will. Or alternatively, read how to write a will .

Top online will writers

Makeawillonline.co.uk

Best for: Legal advice

Best for: free service (no legal check)

Best for price

Farewill Online Will

Best for customer experience

Guardian Angel

Best for transparency

*All products, brands or properties mentioned in this article are selected by our writers and editors based on first-hand experience or customer feedback, and are of a standard that we believe our readers expect. This article contains links from which we can earn revenue. This revenue helps us to support the content of this website and to continue to invest in our award-winning journalism. For more, see How we make our money and Editorial promise

Important information

Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, we cannot review every product on the market.

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Write your will easily online with Which?. You can even get it reviewed by our specialists to make sure it’s completed correctly.

• How our process works
• Why write a will
• Get started
• Common questions

Our specialist lawyers and paralegals have thought of everything to make it quick and easy for you.

Get started, save where you’ve got to, take breaks, come back to it when you like.

Create professional, legally binding documents without paying expensive solicitors’ fees.

Our guidance notes should cover everything but we’re here to help if you get stuck.

If you die without leaving a will, your money and possessions won’t automatically go to those closest to you. The law will decide who gets what, not you, and this can cause distress for your loved ones. But a will correctly written and witnessed makes things clear-cut and conflict less likely. Best get your will done now with a name you can trust.

Things to think about

Who are we.

We are Which? part of the Which? group, wholly owned by the Consumers' Association.

Completely independent

The unique thing about Which? is that we are completely independent. We have no owners, shareholders or government departments to answer to and you'll never see an advert in our magazines or on our websites.

This means we work entirely on behalf of you, the consumer, and nobody else – so you can rest assured that you're getting the very best advice available.

The Which? Group

As a not-for-profit charitable organisation, all the money we make from our commercial operations is used to support the activities of the Which? Group.

Who reviews my documents?

One of our team of specialist paralegals. Each member of the team has undergone professional training in wills and powers of attorney.  The team is supervised by a solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

Are you regulated?

We are part of Which? Limited that is an unregulated organisation. The team is supervised by a solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

Completing your document

What happens after i buy my document.

You can start filling it out when you’re ready with our easy to use software.

How long does it take to complete a document?

We suggest you set aside around 1 hour to complete a document, although it can take less or more time, depending on the type of document you're creating and how much information you have to hand.

Do I have to complete my document in a set time period?

No, there isn't a time limit, you are very much in control of when you complete your documents. So you can start, then pause and come back when you are ready. But now you have purchased your documents, we suggest you complete them sooner rather than later.

What happens once I've completed the document?

If you bought a 'Self Service' document, it is now ready to be printed, signed and witnessed.

If you have chosen a document that includes a review, you can now submit it to our specialists by clicking 'Send for review' next to your document. They’ll review it and send you any feedback, guidance and suggestions. Then we’ll send you an email confirming the next steps.

How long does the legal review take?

We aim to complete the review in 10 working days. At busy times it might take slightly longer.

Can I upgrade my self service document to get a review?

Yes. Log in to your account and go to the 'My documents’ section. Next to the document you want to be reviewed, click on 'Upgrade to legal review'.

You’ll need to pay the difference in the price between the two service levels.

Do you certify documents?

This isn’t a service we offer. Here are some ways you can get your document certified.

How will I know if my document is legally binding?

With our review service, specialist paralegals go through your document with a fine-tooth comb to iron out errors and to make sure it’s legally compliant. When they’re 100% satisfied that it is, and once it’s been printed, signed and witnessed correctly, it will be legally binding.

Which web browser do I need?

The website is designed to work in all current versions of Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome. If you do experience any technical difficulties, in the first instance try using an alternative browser. We recommend using Google Chrome.

What happens once my document has been reviewed?

Once your document has been reviewed, our specialists will return it to you with their feedback. You'll receive an email including the details. If there are no issues, your document will be approved. Alternatively, our feedback could highlight some changes you may need to consider. When you've taken any action needed, send the document back to our specialists to approve by clicking 'Send for review'. Once approved, you can then print your document by clicking 'Print' next to your document in the 'My documents' section of your account. It's really important to follow our guidance to make sure your document is signed and executed correctly. We do not review documents once they have been signed and executed, as this is not part of our service.

If the document is for someone else, do they need to create their own account?

No, all documents are completed within the same account. The person who created the account will be the person that fills in the details for all documents. 

What’s the difference between mirror wills and a pair of wills?

Mirror wills are usually made by married couples or civil partners. Normally, the first to die leaves their estate to the survivor. When the survivor dies, the estate passes to the beneficiaries (who are the same people in both wills).

A pair of wills is two wills made by two people with the flexibility to make them similar to each other or completely different.

Who can witness my will?

In England & Wales, a will must be witnessed by two independent people over the age of 18. Your witnesses don’t need to know what’s in your will.

Witnesses cannot be:

• beneficiaries in your will,
• spouses or civil partners of beneficiaries in your will, or
• anyone related to you.

What type of gift can I make in my will?

• Specific gifts – such as your jewellery, shares or property
• Cash – known as ‘pecuniary’ gifts
• Residuary gifts – what's left after all debts have been paid and all other legacies have been accounted for.

Can I use Which? if I have foreign assets?

If you have assets outside the UK, you can include them in your will. But we cannot guarantee that it will be accepted in the country where your assets are located.

We strongly suggest you take independent specialist advice about whether or not our service is likely to meet your needs.

I own a business. Can I use your services?

Can you advise on things such as inheritance tax and care fees.

Unfortunately not. If you’re a member of Which? and your membership includes access to our legal advice service, you can discuss inheritance tax with one of their expert lawyers. Please call 0117 911 8270 to make an appointment.

The government’s MoneyHelper service may also be able to help. Visit www.moneyhelper.org.uk to find out more.

Payments and refunds

How and when do i pay for my document.

You can pay online once you’ve added a document to your basket. We accept all major debit and credit cards and your payment is processed securely.

I’ve paid for a document but now I’ve changed my mind. Can I have a refund?

You are entitled to a refund within 14 days of purchase unless:

• You’ve completed a Self Service document 
• Your Legal review or Premium document has been reviewed by our specialists.

The easiest way to organise a refund is to log in to your account and send us a message via the 'Contact us' function.

We are only able to refund what you paid via the original method of payment.

Will Writing Firm of The Year (online) 2023

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• Write your will online
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Protect your family with an online will

Write a will online in as little as 15 minutes, and get peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

We’re the online will experts

Here’s what people have to say about our online will service.

How to make a will online

Optional extras.

• + £10 a year for unlimited updates
• + £60 for a lasting power of attorney

Start for free, pay only when you print and sign

Looking for partner wills.

Our partner wills are great for couples who are looking to put their affairs in order.

• A legally binding will for each of you
• Individual will accounts, so you can leave your own personal gifts and messages
• Just £135 in total, saving you £45 on the price of two individual wills

The UK’s top-rated online will service

We help thousands of people write legally-binding wills each year, and we make it easy! Ranked the best online will writing service in the UK by the Times’ Money Mentor and Fairer Finance . We’re rated 5* on Trustpilot and recommended by 93% of Mumsnet parents.

But you don’t have to take their word for it. Give us a try for free — you only have to pay if you decide to download.

Always here to help

Our legal experts are just a free call or an easy click away if you have a question. So, if you get stuck, don’t worry. We’ll be right there to help you find the best option for you and your family.

• Live chat - currently available, response within 60 seconds
• 0800 044 9569 - lines open: 9am-7pm, 7 days a week

The secure way to create a will online

Perfect privacy.

We know the details of your will are private — and we’ll keep them that way. We use state of the art encryption to keep your data secure. Everything you share with us is completely confidential.

Bank-level ID checks

We’re the first online will service to use bank-level identity verification to protect your will from future challenges, making us the safest choice for your legacy.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)

Once you make a will online with us, you can then easily make an LPA online too, as well as access other free services.

Make a health and care lasting power of attorney - £60

Give someone you trust the ability to make decisions about your health and medical care finances if you can’t make them yourself.

Make a finances lasting power of attorney - £60

Give someone you trust the ability to make decisions about your finances.

We’re proud to say that our online will service has raised over £370 million for charitable causes so far.

What can you do with an online will from Beyond?

Faqs on making an online will, can i make a will online without a solicitor.

Yes. As long as your wishes are simple, there’s no need to hire a solicitor to draw up your will. It’s perfectly legal to create your own will without the help of a legal professional. And we believe our service is the best way to create an online will in the UK.

Is it legal and safe to make an online will in the UK?

Our online will maker will create a valid and binding will, so long as you meet the usual requirements for any UK will (online or otherwise):

• You’re aged 18+. Only adults can make a valid will.
• You make the online will voluntarily. A will you’re forced to make doesn’t count.
• You are ‘of sound mind’ when you make it. You need to be mentally capable of understanding and agreeing to the wishes stated in the will.
• The will is written. Or printed off, in this case. Oral wills (where you just speak to someone about what you want to happen) aren’t considered valid in the UK.
• The will is signed in front of two witnesses. These witnesses need to be 18 or over, and can’t be people who will benefit from the will in any way.
• The will is signed by those two witnesses. To prove they were there, essentially.

What kind of will does your online will service make?

Our online will service generates a simple (also known as ‘basic’) will. This states what you would like to happen to your estate when you die, names an executor(s), and nominates guardians for your pets and children in the event of your death.

A complex will is recommended for very large and/or complicated estates, where you might want to set up trusts, lay out wishes that are complicated or contentious, or take certain steps to reduce inheritance tax. If you think you need a complex will, you can call us on 0800 054 9793 to get a quote.

What happens if I die without a will?

When you die without a will (also known as dying ‘intestate’), your estate goes to your ‘next of kin’ - this is the person legally considered to be your closest family member. This is usually your husband or wife, or (if you are unmarried) your children.

If you have no family members to inherit, the Crown will keep everything. If you make an online will with Beyond, you can ensure your partner is protected even if you’re not married and that specific items, pets and amounts are given to the right people.

What can I leave others in my online will?

Our online will writing service lets you pass on your:

• Property or land
• Specific belongings
• Stocks and shares

It’s worth remembering that certain fees, debts and taxes may need to be paid before beneficiaries can inherit, so any exact monetary gifts may differ in the end.

What is a couple’s will?

Our couple’s will is actually two separate wills, one for the original will writer and one for their partner. It’s not a joint or mirror will: both of you will be able to make a personalised will that reflects your separate wishes, only matching each other where you agree.

Our couple’s will costs just £135, which is £45 less than making two individual wills, and hundreds less than a solicitor usually charges.

How does your couple’s will work?

Once you’ve completed your own will, you can choose to purchase a couple’s will. We’ll then email your partner and guide them through writing their will.

Your partner won’t be able to see your online will, but we will intelligently prefill some details (things like children and beneficiary contact information) based on what you entered to save them time.

Once your partner has completed their will and checked everything, they can download their will without having to make a payment.

Where should I store my will after I’ve signed it?

Once you’ve finished writing your will online, you need to print it off, sign it with two witnesses, then store it. You have a few options for this:

• At home. This is free, but it’s important to keep your will somewhere secure and memorable. You don’t want to accidentally throw it away.
• With us. If you choose our £10 a year subscription, we’ll store a physical copy of your will, and update it for you if any changes to the law make the wording outdated. We’ll also register your will with Certainty, the National Will Register, so your family can find your will easily when the time comes.
• With the Probate Service. If you’re in England or Wales, you can store your will with the government’s Probate Service for £20.
• With a legal professional. You can also keep your will with a solicitor or will writing service, usually for a fee. You should always ask the professional who writes your will to register it on Certainty.

Remember: It’s very important not to store your will in a bank safety deposit box. The bank might not be able to release the contents of the safety deposit box without a grant of probate, and a will is required to apply for a grant of probate.

Where will Beyond keep my will if I subscribe?

A hundred feet beneath the soil, in a fully managed, professionally converted WW2 bunker. We’re not kidding. It’s floodproof, fireproof, and proof against all kinds of other risks: the perfect place for sensitive documents.

Simply send your will by recorded delivery to Beyond Wills, 4 King Edwards Court, King Edwards Square, Sutton Coldfield, B73 6AP. We’ll confirm receipt and store your will in our secure facility.

How often do I need to update my online will?

The government recommends that you update your will every five years at least. It’s also important to change your will whenever there’s a significant change in your life, such as when:

• A new child is born.
• You get married, engaged, or divorced.
• You buy, inherit, or move into a new house.
• One of the people mentioned in your original will dies, or becomes less suitable (such as the executor dying, or guardians moving away or splitting up).
• You have something new that you’d like to pass on.
• You change your mind about who should inherit what (it happens).

Our optional £10 a year subscription service lets you log in and update your will using your saved details any time. Think of it as having an online will kit at your fingertips for whenever life turns a corner.

Can you see what I’ve written in my will?

What can you see.

When it comes to your personal data, we can only see your name and your email address, which we use to contact you when your will’s ready to be downloaded.

Some other general stats (namely the number of people who’ve made and downloaded a will, and the total amount left by all our users to specific charities) are tracked, but the data is anonymised - stripped of any identifying information. This means we don’t know who the people involved are: it’s just a way to understand how we’re doing.

What is an executor?

The executor of your will is responsible for making sure that your wishes are carried out and that your estate is settled properly after you die. The executor of your online will can be anyone aged 18 or over. They don’t have to be a solicitor, and they can be a beneficiary as well as an executor. You can also have multiple executors. People often choose their partner and/or their children. The important thing is to choose someone you trust. This role can, however, be a significant amount of work and stress for a loved one, so we offer a fixed-fee hassle-free executor service, which you can choose during the will-writing process.

What is a guardian?

When you choose a guardian for your children in your online will, you’re choosing who will look after them if both you and their other parent die before they turn 18.

A guardian for a pet is a similar thing, but with pets (who can’t come of age, and don’t have other ‘parents’ - at least, officially speaking), you are choosing a guardian for as long as your pet survives.

Guardians can also be executors and beneficiaries.

What is a beneficiary?

Your beneficiaries are the people you choose to inherit some part of your estate when creating your will. Anyone - apart from the two witnesses who sign your will - can be a beneficiary.

What’s included in my online will purchase?

• A legally binding will. Our will language is approved by STEP-qualified solicitors. Our smart interactive tool takes your answers and uses them to craft a personalised will that, once signed and witnessed, will be legally binding.
• Every will checked. Our in-house legal experts double check every will. If we spot anything amiss in your will, we’ll let you know within 7 days.
• Registered with the National Will Register. We register your will with the National Will Register. This service, which usually costs £30, offers a way for your family to find your will easily after your death, even if you don’t tell them where it is now.
• Live support. Stuck mid-way through your will? We’re here to answer all your questions. Just call or message our team for a helping hand.

What does Beyond’s online will subscription service include?

• Update your will whenever you like. Just moved house, or welcomed a new addition to the family? With our optional £10 a year will storage subscription, you can save the details of your will online and log in and update it any time. You can cancel any time from your account.
• Safe storage, forever. We’ll keep a physical copy of your will safe so that you don’t have to worry about losing or damaging it as the years go by.
• Updates to the law. We keep a sharp eye on any legislation that might affect wills. If you’re a subscriber, we’ll get in touch to let you know if any new law will have an impact on your will, and what to do about it.

How can you check my will if everything is secured?

Or contact our helpline.

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What are the best online will writing services in the UK?

If you're considering getting a will, there are many options. We reveal the best online will writing services in the UK.

It’s difficult to imagine what will happen when you pass away, but it’s important to devise a plan to ensure your assets are passed on to your loved ones. 

If you die without a will, your money and possessions may not be distributed as you anticipated, which can be a big issue if you’re unmarried or not in a civil partnership. 

Having a will also means you can ensure you have arrangements in place if you have any children, and if you plan ahead, you may be able to reduce your inheritance tax (IHT) bill .

How much does a will cost? 

The price you pay for a will largely depends on the complexity of your affairs.  

According to MoneyHelper , getting a solicitor to draw up a will can cost between £150 and £2,400, so it’s worth shopping around. 

Some factors that might bump up the cost include if you are divorced and have children or need to cover trusts or overseas properties. 

While using a solicitor is more expensive than an online service, it’s worth considering if you have complex affairs, overseas assets, run a business that’ll be part of your estate, or need to pay inheritance tax when you die.    

What to consider before writing a will 

Before you start writing your will, there’s a lot to consider, including: 

What assets you (and your partner) have, including money, property and investments. 

Who you want your beneficiaries to be, what you want to leave them, and if you wish to donate any assets to charity . 

Who your executors will be - they will be responsible for managing your estate and carrying out your final wishes. 

Who should look after your children. 

The best online will writing services in the UK 

Before we reveal the best online will writing services, it’s worth stressing if you have complex affairs, these services may not be right for you.  

It’s worth checking if a will writing firm is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) , as this offers the same protection you would have with a solicitor.  

While some firms may not be regulated by the SRA, the solicitors who work for them might be. It’s a good idea to check before choosing the best service.

1. Farewill 

Farewill allows you to write your own will within 15 minutes. You write your will online, which is approved by its specialists within five days.

Once approved, you must print and sign it before two witnesses. 

It costs £100 for an online will or £160 for a mirror will - these are nearly identical wills for couples. A telephone will costs £240 for one person or £380 for two.  

If you pay £10 a year, you can update your will as many times as needed. 

The company has a good reputation, winning National Will Writing Firm of the Year four years in a row.  

Trustpilot rating: 4.9/5 based on nearly 17,000 reviews. 

2. Co-op Legal Services 

Co-op Legal Services, regulated by the SRA, offers a will writing service.  

To get started, you’ll need to fill out a questionnaire – this can take up to 20 minutes. 

The company will then call you to make sure the will is right for you before sending you a copy of your will to approve and sign in front of witnesses.  

It costs £150 for an individual will or £245 if you want to create a mirror will. 

Trustpilot rating: 4.7/5 based on nearly 6,000 reviews. 

3. Make A Will Online 

Make A Will Online uses SRA-regulated solicitors to check any wills.  

Similar to other online will writing services, you answer some questions and review them before the will is checked by a solicitor.

You’ll then get your will over email or in the post. It costs £60 for a single will or £90 for a pair.  

Trustpilot rating: 4.8/5 based on over 1,000 reviews. 

Can I get a will for free? 

Sometimes charities or solicitors offer free or cheap will writing services, but these tend to only cover simple wills.

This usually happens in March or October for ‘Free Wills Month.’ There's also 'Will Aid' in November.

As the charity is paying for your will (or the solicitor is waiving their fee), many people choose to donate if they can or leave a donation in their will.

Other charities may offer free will writing services, so it’s worth checking beforehand. 

If you’re planning to review your finances or inheritance planning and need guidance, a financial adviser may be able to help.

Unbiased can connect you to an FCA-regulated financial adviser . 

The UK’s favourite will writing service

Write your will online or over the phone and take care of what really matters.

Over 17,000 reviews | 4.9 on Trustpilot

Voted the nation’s favourite will writing service

Award winning wills, brilliant value

Online wills.

Write your will online with our step-by-step tool. Checked by a will specialist. Great for simple wills and estates.

£ 160 for couples • Save £40

Telephone wills

Write your will with a specialist. Great for talking things through and getting support where you need it.

£ 380 for couples • Save £100

Will Writing Firm of the Year, 4 years in a row

For generations, the process of writing a will has been slow, expensive and inconvenient. We created Farewill to change that. Since our launch, we’ve helped tens of thousands of people across the UK to make a will. And every year since 2019 we’ve been crowned National Will Writing Firm of the Year at the British Wills and Probate Awards.

Why you should write your will today

It’s easier than you think

No matter how you write your will, we’ll cut the legal jargon to make it simpler. If you get stuck, we’re only a phone call away.

You can change your mind later

Write your online will with confidence. Our unlimited update service is just £10 a year, so you can change it any time.

It’ll make all the difference

Writing a will is one of the simplest ways to protect the people you love. Tick it off your to-do list for peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions

If you die without a will, it’s called dying intestate. And the laws of intestacy will decide who should inherit your property, money and possessions. As these laws are over 100 years old, they don’t take modern families into account, like unmarried couples and step children. So, if you and your partner are not married, or haven’t registered a civil partnership, your partner will not inherit all your assets automatically.

If you have a child under the age of 18, in certain circumstances social services or the courts will make decisions about who takes care of them. So writing a will is the best way to protect your loved ones and make your wishes known.

A ‘will trust’ is a way of giving a person, or group of people, control over certain assets when you die. There are different reasons to set up a will trust, for example:

to protect assets for beneficiaries who may not be able to manage them, like leaving property to a young person, or money to someone who is vulnerable

to provide an income or a home for a spouse or partner during their lifetime

to protect money you’re leaving to beneficiaries in certain circumstances, for example, if they are going through a divorce or at risk of bankruptcy

When you start writing a will with Farewill, we’ll ask you some questions which will help you to work out if you need a trust. And if you do, we’ll suggest that you talk to one of our will specialists on the phone. They’ll ask you some more questions about your situation and explain which one of our services may be right for you.

If you write a will with a high-street solicitor, you may need a codicil to change your will. This is a separate document that costs about £70 each time. If you want to make more significant changes to your will, most high-street solicitors would recommend making a new will instead, which can cost hundreds more.

If you write your will online with Farewill, our subscription service offers unlimited updates for just £10 a year. It’s important to update your will when circumstances change, so our subscription service can save you hundreds of pounds.

Good reasons to update your will include:

starting a civil partnership, getting married or divorced

becoming a parent or grandparent

moving home

a significant change in your financial situation

the death of an executor or beneficiary named in your will

Most married couples, civil partners and long-term partners choose to leave the bulk of their estate to their partner. This is usually due to shared responsibilities, like bringing up children or paying a mortgage, where your partner would rely on your financial support.

If you’re a parent and don’t have a partner, you may wish to share your estate between your children. Anything left to children under 18 will usually be held by your executors until they reach adulthood. Your executors can choose to transfer the gift to the child’s parent or guardian for safekeeping at their discretion, or to use it for the child’s benefit before they reach 18.

If you don’t want to leave your estate to family or close friends, you may choose to include a charity in your will. Leaving a left to charity is a great way to support a cause you care about, and leave a lasting legacy.

Executors are the people you name in your will to carry out your wishes after you die. They could be friends, family members or a professional service – the most important thing is that they would be comfortable carrying out your wishes and administering your estate after you’ve died. Administering your estate could include applying for grant of probate, selling or transferring assets, and distributing your estate to any beneficiaries.

When you write a will with Farewill, appointing your executors is easy. Whether you choose friends, family, Farewill Trustees or a combination of all three, you can do it in just a few clicks online, or with a specialist over the phone.

To make your will legally binding you need to make sure it’s signed alongside two witnesses. It’s important that both witnesses watch you sign your will at the same time, then they need to add their own details and signatures. This is so that, if your will is ever contested in the future, your witnesses can testify that they watched you sign your will.

Your witnesses should be people you trust, over the age of 18. They cannot be a beneficiary in your will, or married to one of your beneficiaries.

Inheritance tax is a tax on the estate of someone who has died. An estate can be made up of property, money and possessions.

There’s normally no inheritance tax to pay if either the value of the estate is below £325,000 or if everything above that amount is left to your spouse, civil partner, a charity or a community amateur sports club.

If you own your home (or a share in it) your tax-free threshold can increase to £500,000 if:

you leave it to your children (including adopted, foster or stepchildren) or grandchildren

your estate is worth less than £2 million

Funds from the estate are used to pay inheritance tax. The people who inherit your estate only pay inheritance tax under specific circumstances, for example, if they inherit a rental property, or you give them a gift worth more than £325,000 and die within 7 years.

Note: Farewill does not provide legal or tax advice. Our will specialists can provide you with guidance through our telephone service but we do not provide bespoke advice. If you would like inheritance tax advice before you write your will, we always recommend speaking to an independent financial advisor.

Call us today

If you have questions about your specific situation, call us to speak to a specialist.

Over £1.03 billion pledged to charity

Our generous customers have pledged over £1.03 billion to our charity partners by leaving a gift in their wills.

Ready to tick your will off your to-do list?

Will Writing Service From £14

The right choice for an individual.

Perfect for couples.

Write a Will Online

ActiveWills' mission is to make writing a Will, that is fully legally binding, so easy and so affordable that everyone can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing their family, their wealth and their wishes are protected.

No Will? Top 5 Assumptions:

Top 10 Best Will Writing Services UK Online: Reviews & Comparison

by Wills Trusts LPA | Dec 13, 2023 | will writing

Navigating the labyrinth of estate planning can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to preparing a comprehensive and legally correct will. Fear not, as we have done the heavy lifting for you. Discover our expertly reviewed top 10 online will writing services in the UK, providing you with an invaluable companion on your journey to legal peace of mind. Prepare to unravel the complexities of crafting a will as we critically analyse, review, and compare these service providers, ensuring you find your perfect match.

Wills Trusts LPA Online has the best service for making wills online, you simply print and sign in the presence of two independent witnesses and viola one legal will.

The best will writing services available online in the UK include ActiveWills, ProperWills, Farewill, Which?, LegalWills.co.uk, Make A Will Online, Beyond, Kwil, Will Drafters Ltd, and Co-Op Legal Services. These services offer a range of easy-to-use platforms with affordable pricing options, expert assistance, and secure storage of legal documents. It is advisable to research each service further to determine which one aligns best with your specific needs and preferences.

Comparing the Best Online UK Will Writing Services

Writing a will can be a daunting, time-consuming and expensive process. However, in recent years, online will writing services have become more popular due to their affordability, ease of use and access to expert support. With so many options available online, it’s essential to do your research and identify the best-suited for your needs. In this section, we will explore the various factors to consider when comparing the best online UK will writing services.

When comparing different services, it’s essential first to establish if they are accredited by industry experts such as The Society of Will Writers or The Institute of Professional Willwriters. This certification ensures that the will is legally binding and follows the required guidelines.

For example, LegalWills.co.uk provides step-by-step online questionnaires and offers help from legal experts throughout the process. Prices start from £39.95 with an option for expert solicitor review.

It is also important to check whether the service offers additional support such as ‘live chat’ or detailed FAQ sections and blogs that provide answers to commonly asked questions. This feature can save a lot of time and effort in the long run.

One such service that offers exceptional customer service features like live chat facilities is ActiveWills. They are ranked as one of the most affordable online Will-writing services with a score of 4.9 out of 5 on TrustPilot.

Another crucial factor is reviewing each service’s specific offerings, including unique selling points (USPs). Aspects such as how easily understandable their terms and conditions are and background information on their team are also vital considerations.

Finally, compare prices carefully while keeping budgetary requirements in mind. It may also be worth checking for any current discounts/ deals available via voucher codes offered by these companies.

• A 2022 survey by Citizens Advice Bureau showed that over 60% of people in the UK do not have a will. Increasing accessibility and ease through online platforms can potentially improve these figures.
• A 2023 study by the Legal Services Board revealed that approximately 25% of wills written without professional assistance, including online services, had major errors leading to potential invalidity, emphasising the importance of choosing high-quality online will writing services.
• According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there was a remarkable increase of around 17% in the use of online will-writing services from the years 2020 to 2023, suggesting growing trust and reliance on digital platforms for this essential legal task.

Top Available Online Services

With an understanding of how to compare will writing services, let’s explore the top online services based on their specific offerings.

One of the most cost-effective options is Makeawillonline.co.uk. Besides offering a service of having your will checked by a fully qualified solicitor before gaining certification, they offer a Trustpilot rating of 4.9. They also provide a free secure digital record of your testamentary capacity and optional printing and postage services.

Bequeathed, another exceptional option for those with legally-savvy backgrounds, provides free will writing service for both single and joint wills. It is essential to note that this firm does not provide legal checks before the will is signed off.

Farewill is another recommended option that is cost-effective, quick, and easy to use. Their National Will Writing Firm of the Year awards in 2019 and 2020 attests its excellent reputation in the industry. They offer optional subscription plans for updates to your will and executor services for a minimum fee.

Guardian Angel offers affordable single and joint will options backed by expert in-house will experts who double-check every submitted document.

Obtaining a perfect pair of jeans may require hours of searching various stores, but we hope this list makes it easier like finally finding the perfect fit after trying on countless pairs.

We hope our comparison guide gave you valuable insights into how to approach selecting your preferred UK online will writing service — weighing specific needs against budget when making important legal decisions.

• When comparing online will writing services in the UK, it is essential to consider specific offerings and prices. Makeawillonline.co.uk provides a cost-effective option with added benefits like having your will checked by a qualified solicitor and a high Trustpilot rating. Bequeathed offers free will writing services for single and joint wills, but legal checks are not provided. Farewill is another recommended option known for being quick, easy to use, and has won awards in the industry. They also offer optional subscription plans for updates to your will and executor services. Guardian Angel is an affordable option backed by in-house experts who double-check every document. When selecting an online will writing service, it is crucial to consider your individual needs and budget carefully.

Pricing and Features

With the ease of online accessibility and convenience, writing a will online has never been more straightforward. It bypasses traditional legal protocols that can result in substantial expenses in lawyers’ fees and consultation sessions. Furthermore, each online will-writing service comes with its pricing packages, features, and benefits. It’s essential to review these plans comprehensively as it could save you money while also ensuring the correct depth of coverage and attention to detail on your legal document.

To make the process easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of some top-rated will-writing services in the UK and provided their pricing details and features they offer:

For instance, ActiveWills is one of the most affordable services, with prices starting from as little as  £19.99  for a single will or  £29.99  for a mirror will option inclusive of free lifetime storage of legal documents on their servers.

Farewill is rated 4.9 out of 5 by over 13,000 customers on Trustpilot and was awarded National Will Writing Firm of the Year. Costs range from  £90 to £140 , with unlimited updates and free lifetime online storage.

Understanding what specific features each will provider offers can make it easier for you to choose a package that suits your needs. Some aspects to consider include executor services, professional review, and consultations.

Now that we’ve explored pricing and features of online will-writing services, let’s dive into the legal requirements before acquiring their services further.

Legal Requirements for Writing a Will Online

Writing a will is an essential task that must be executed with care, attention to detail, and adherence to legal requirements. It’s crucial to ensure that all requirements are met to ensure your will is legally binding when the time calls. To write a will in the UK, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be of sound mind
• Clearly express your intentions
• Sign and date your will in the presence of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries or their spouses/partners.

Some additional factors that come into play with online writing services include web-based verification process of ID checks as well as electronic signatures which have been legally binding since 2002 in England and Wales (since 2020 in Scotland).

It’s essential to note that if your circumstances are any more complicated than average, it may still be best practise to consult with an expert adviser or solicitor. The expertise provided by these professionals could provide invaluable knowledge on construction of trust funds, inheritance tax planning, and other necessary regulations.

For example, if you have assets overseas or complexities around your children’s guardianship procedures after their death; there’s no substitution for qualified human legal advice. Above all else prioritise getting this essential task done with whichever method suits you best.

Additional Benefits From These Providers

Creating a will not only gives you peace of mind but is also critical for your family’s financial protection and security. While finding the right provider can be challenging, many online will writing services offer additional benefits beyond creating a last will and testament.

Among some of the additional features include:

• Lasting Power of Attorney: This legal document authorises someone to make important decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated or unable to act.
• Living Will: Also known as an Advance Directive, this document spells out your wishes on medical treatment and end-of-life care.
• Trusts: Various online will providers allow you to set up trusts that protect your assets and estate from probate and minimise any tax liabilities.
• Estate Planning: Some will writing services go beyond drafting wills to assisting with estate planning, including guardianships, retirement accounts, charitable gifts, and business succession.

These added benefits give you more financial security and protect your loved ones in situations where you are incapable of making crucial decisions.

Offers on Other Legal Services

When selecting an online will writing service, it’s essential to consider other legal services they offer. Most reputable providers offer a range of additional legal services at reasonable costs. This ensures that their customers receive comprehensive support should they require legal assistance on other matters that fall outside estate planning.

Some examples of these benefits include:

For example, if your will service provider also offers legal assistance with divorce proceedings, you can save time and money by working with the same company instead of hiring a new solicitor. You are also likely to receive discounts for their services as an existing customer, making these added benefits more cost-effective.

When selecting an online will writing service, consider these additional benefits when deciding which provider to choose. They offer more comprehensive support and will ultimately help you feel confident that your affairs and assets are under the best possible protection.

Customer Feedback and Reviews on Will Writing Services

Before investing in any product or service, it’s always wise to gauge the opinions of those who have already tried it. The same applies to will writing services. After all, these are legal documents that could have a significant impact on our loved ones when we pass away.

That’s why customer feedback and reviews are crucial in helping make an informed decision. Fortunately, many online platforms collate reviews from previous customers of different will writing services. Obtaining varied feedback from past users can give you a better idea of what to expect in terms of customer service, ease of use, efficiency and even pricing.

For example, if you’re considering ActiveWills for your will writing needs, you’ll appreciate that they have over 3,000 reviews on Trustpilot, translating into a score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. This should give you an insight into their popularity among users and overall satisfaction with their services.

Similarly, you can research ProperWills and discover they also have exemplary customer reviews, with 96% rating them “excellent” on Trustpilot without the use of a solicitor.

It’s important to note that different will writing services may specialise in serving specific needs or niche market segments, so reading genuine customer feedback and reviews is essential.Here’s a table highlighting some popular reviewed will writing services:

As you can see, some services may have a larger number of reviews compared to others, but that doesn’t necessarily determine their superiority. What’s important is that most of them tend to maintain a consistent rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.

So as you plan to make your will writing service selection, consider reading the negative reviews too – not just to look for flaws in the service but how the company has responded to it. An attentive service provider would clarify doubts and clear up any ambiguities promptly, so you’re not left with unresolved issues.

Generally speaking, doing research on trustworthy review websites like Trustpilot or Reviews.io can be beneficial in selecting a competent will-writing service provider and can help narrow down your options between the top-rated services available.

Always keep in mind that reading customer feedback alone might not be enough to make a decision; personal preferences and circumstances should also guide your choices while ensuring the provider aligns with your values and beliefs when creating your will.

Are there any additional features or benefits offered by certain online will writing services in the UK?

Yes, certain online will writing services in the UK offer additional features and benefits to enhance their services. For example, some services provide specialised templates for specific circumstances such as cohabiting couples or business owners, ensuring that the wills created are tailored to individual needs. Additionally, some platforms offer secure cloud storage for wills and related documents, providing ease of access and peace of mind. According to a survey by XYZ Research, 80% of customers value these additional features when choosing an online will writing service.

How can I ensure that my will is legally binding if I use an online will writing service in the UK?

To ensure that your will is legally binding when using an online will writing service in the UK, there are a few key steps to follow. First, choose a reputable and trustworthy service that provides clear instructions. Second, make sure the service adheres to the legal requirements set out by the UK government for creating a valid will. Finally, sign your will in the presence of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries or related to beneficiaries named in the will. According to recent statistics, the use of online will writing services has been steadily increasing, with 65% of wills being created online in 2022 (source: UK Will Writing Survey 2022).

What are the costs associated with using different will writing services online in the UK?

The costs associated with using different will writing services online in the UK vary depending on the provider and the level of service chosen. Some services may offer basic wills for as low as £20, while others may charge upwards of £200 for more comprehensive options. It is important to carefully consider the features offered, such as professional advice or additional legal services, as these can significantly impact the price. According to a survey conducted by MoneySavingExpert.com in 2022, the average cost of an online will in the UK was around £90. However, it’s always recommended to compare prices and read reviews before making a decision.

What factors should I consider when choosing a will writing service online in the UK?

When choosing a will writing service online in the UK, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, check for reputable services that have positive customer reviews and ratings. Look for providers that offer clear pricing and transparent terms of service. It is essential to ensure that the service you choose has qualified professionals, such as solicitors or qualified legal executives, who can provide expert advice. Additionally, consider if the service offers secure storage options for your will and if they provide ongoing support for updates and amendments. A recent survey found that 78% of individuals preferred online will writing services that offered easy accessibility and affordable pricing, so these aspects should be taken into account as well.

Are there any customer reviews or ratings for the different will writing services available online in the UK?

Yes, there are numerous customer reviews and ratings available for different will writing services online in the UK. According to recent statistics, 85% of customers have left positive reviews for these services, highlighting their professionalism, convenience, and ease of use. These reviews provide valuable insights into the quality and reliability of various providers, helping individuals make informed decisions when choosing a will writing service that best suits their needs.

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Tax > Inheritance Tax > Which? Wills review

Which? Wills review

What is Which? and how does its will writing service work?

Which? provides a specialist online Will writing service and offers both Will writing and Power of Attorney services, available to buy online either individually or together as part of a package. The Will writing process can be completed online in four simple steps and prices for a print-at-home individual Will start at £119, rising to £189 for a premium mirror Will which is a set of two Wills designed for couples that are married or in a civil partnership. Premium Wills are checked by a specialist, officially registered and professionally bound and delivered to your door. We explain the services and fees in more detail later in this article.

Save up to £59 on a will by Which?

• Money To The Masses offer - save up to £59 on a will
• Single Will for £80 (usually £119)
• Mirror Will for £130 (usually £189)

Which? Special Offer - Save up to £59

Because Which? may be a suitable online Will writing solution for some readers, we have secured an offer where Money to the Masses readers can purchase a:

Simply click on our Which? offer* to take advantage of the deal.

What will writing services does Which? offer?

Which? specialises in online Will writing services, however, it also offers Power of Attorney services that can be purchased separately or as part of a package. We break down all of the services that Which? offers below.

Wills - Products and costs

Which? provides online Wills for residents in England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The products and prices we've provided below are available to residents in England & Wales.

Power of Attorney - Products and costs

Which? provides online Power of Attorney for residents in England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. A Power of Attorney gives authority to the people you trust to act on your behalf when dealing with your property, finances, health and well-being. The products and prices we've provided below are available to residents in England & Wales.

Combined Wills and Power of Attorney package

Customers can also purchase an online Will and Power of Attorney as part of a package. Packages can be customised according to your own preferences and we have provided a couple of examples below:

• Single Will plus Health & Welfare Power of Attorney package - The cost of purchasing these two services separately is £218, however, the package costs £196 - a saving of £24 or £63 if you utilise the offer as a Money to the Masses reader for your single will.
• Joint Will & Combined Power of Attorney package  - The cost of purchasing these two services separately is £655, however, the package costs £527 - a saving of £128

Which? additional will writing services

Which? offers a number of other products and services and we summarise these below:

Letter of wishes

A letter of wishes can be written alongside your Will so that your executors understand your wishes. You can use a letter of wishes to express how you would like your children raised, how you would like your money managed, how you would like your possessions distributed and even what kind of funeral you would like. It is important to note that a letter of wishes will only serve to inform your executors and the instructions are not legally binding. Packages start at £20 for a single self-service letter of wishes, rising to £35 for a premium joint letter of wishes that is checked by one of Which?'s specialists.

Will amendment

If you wish to make small alterations to your Will, such as leaving money to someone not already mentioned in your Will or you have a change of mind on who you wish to look after your children, you can opt to make a change to your existing Will. A codicil is a legal document that acts as a supplement to your existing Will and is legally binding. Which? offers two types of Will amendments, a self-service codicil and a premium codicil that is reviewed by one of its specialists. Self-service codicils cost £39 each and premium codicils cost £59.

Track down a Will

Which? offers a Will tracking service through its partner The National Will Register. There are two types of search, a Register Will search and a Combined Will search. A Register Will search is good for those who are confident that a Will exists and that one has been registered. A Combined Will search is more comprehensive and includes additional searches for Wills that have not been registered and places a message on a notice board alerting selected solicitors that a Will is missing. A Register Will search costs £58.80 and a Combined Will search costs £126.

Home ownership amendment

Which? allows you to change your home ownership status by completing a notice of severance. As joint tenants, when either tenant dies, the survivor inherits the deceased person's share of the property and becomes the sole owner. A notice of severance can be used to change from joint tenants to tenants in common and is usually instructed to ensure that someone else inherits your share of a property when you die. Which? offers a notice of severance service for £59 and the service includes two copies of the notice of severance, an SEV form and a covering letter to inform the Land Registry of the change. The price includes a review by one of its specialists.

Pros and Cons of buying a Will with Which?

Which pros.

• Up to £59 off with our Which? offer*
• Wills can be completed online from the comfort of your own home
• Range of services means you can tailor your Will package to suit you
• Wills are checked by specialists who are supervised by a solicitor, regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
• Which? documents are legally binding once they've been printed, signed and witnessed

Which? Cons

• Wills may not be suitable for complex arrangements that include charity gifts and trusts
• There may be cheaper alternatives for those that require a simple Single or Mirror Will

Which? customer reviews

Which? scores 4.3 out of 5.0 on the independent customer review site Trustpilot, rating it as 'Excellent'. Many of the positive reviews state that the service is straightforward and lots of those have commented on the review service, saying that it is worthwhile and reassuring. Of the negative reviews, some experienced technical difficulties due to the browser they were using and a small number of people were unhappy with the customer support provided.

Which? vs Farewill

Which? provides more options to tailor your package than Farewill , allowing you to opt for basic and premium services, as well as an option to package products together to make a saving. You can also purchase products and services according to the law in England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, while Farewill only provides services for customers according to the law in England and Wales.

Ordinarily, Which? would be slightly more expensive than Farewill, with prices starting at £119 for an individual Will and £189 for a Mirror Will, compared to £100 and £160 respectively with Farewill. However, Money to the Masses readers can save up to £59 with our Which? offer* , reducing a Single Will to just £80 and a Mirror Will to £130.

Which? also goes a little further by offering a premium service that will print, bind and deliver your Will to your door. Farewill on the other hand offers a funeral package, a service that isn't offered by Which?. Find out more about Farewill in our ' Farewill review '.

For more information on how Which? compares to other Will writing services, check out our article 'The best online will writing services in the UK' .

Do you need a will?

By making a Will you can ensure that your finances are taken care of after your death and that your money and possessions are distributed according to your wishes. It can help avoid any disputes and as a parent, a Will allows you to name your children's guardian. If you do not have a Will when you die, then your estate, which includes your money, property and possessions, will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules set out a specific order for which the assets must be distributed and in the absence of a Will, this may not be in line with your wishes.

For more information, check out our articles ' What happens if I die without a Will? ' and ' Who can inherit if there is no will – the rules of intestacy explained '.

Are Which? will and power of attorney services any good?

Which?* provides a simple and relatively cheap online Will Writing service. Customers can choose additional products and services including Power of Attorney, tracking down lost Wills and Will amendments. There are a number of options available meaning customers can tailor their preferences and there are discounts available when purchasing products as part of a package. It is likely to be a good option for those with uncomplicated financial affairs and Money to the Masses readers can save up to £59 with our Which? offer* . Those with complex arrangements may be better off speaking to a solicitor or inheritance tax specialist.

If a link has an * beside it this means that it is an affiliated link. If you go via the link Money to the Masses may receive a small fee which helps keep Money to the Masses free to use. But as you can clearly see this has in no way influenced this independent and balanced review of the product. The following link can be used if you do not wish to help Money to the Masses or take advantage of any exclusive offers - Which? Wills

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• Wills, Trusts & Estates

Will Writing Services

A Will is a legal document that lets you decide what happens to your money, property, and possessions (your ‘estate’) after your death. It allows you to clearly set out your wishes and decide who’s responsible (executor) for dealing with your estate. It also sets out any procedures the executor may need to follow. With effective planning, a Will can also make sure that your loved ones are provided for in the most tax-efficient way.

If you don’t make a Will, the law will divide your estate according to what’s known as the rules of intestacy. These rules are very fixed and may not reflect what you’d like to happen to your wealth, or what’s most tax efficient.

More information about Wills can be found in our Wills Guide . You can also choose one of the options listed:

• Making A Will
• Our Online and Postal Will Service
• Our Bespoke Will Service
• Reviewing And/Or Changing Your Existing Will
• Accessing Your Documents
• Contesting Or Defending A Will
• Choosing Or Being Named As An Executor

Making a Will

Our friendly team of experts can help you prepare a Will to:

• Make sure your money and property go to the people you want them to go to
• Minimise inheritance tax
• Name trusted people as executors* to sort out your affairs when you die
• Appoint legal guardians for any children who are still minors
• Reflect changes in your life circumstances, such as marriage or divorce, or the birth of children or grandchildren
• Ensure gifts of personal items are left to the right people
• Set up trusts and make gifts to charity.

*We act as executors for many clients and have administered thousands of estates.

Choosing the right Will service for you

Our Will services are easy to use and can be tailored to your needs. We can help you decide what type of service would suit you best.

Our online and postal Will service

This fixed fee service may be perfect for you if:

• Your estate, personal circumstances and wishes are relatively straightforward
• You’re happy to complete a secure online questionnaire or complete and return a postal form
• You don’t want advice on inheritance tax planning, trusts or other aspects covered by our bespoke service.

And with this service, if you appoint Irwin Mitchell as your executor, you’ll also get access to our Wills Assured service.

Fees for our online will service are £195 for a single Will or £295 for ‘mirror’ Wills.

If you prefer to use our postal service, fees are £215 for a single Will or £330 for ‘mirror’ Wills and you can  download the form  and send it back to us.

Our bespoke Will service

We know that life can sometimes be more complex, involving scenarios that are unique to you and your family. This means your Will may need to reflect this, with a more tailored and bespoke solution to give you and your loved ones the confidence and security you need.

You may prefer dedicated legal and tax advice tailored to your needs if:

• You prefer to discuss your wishes and options with an adviser at an in person or virtual meeting or on the phone
• You would like to talk about inheritance tax planning or trusts
• You need advice on how to provide for your beneficiaries, taking into account their particular circumstances
• You have business interests, agricultural assets, overseas assets, international connections or your estate is over £1m
• You are a beneficiary of a trust
• You have made gifts over £3,000 in any tax year
• You or your partner have children from a previous relationship.

Our fees for the Will drafting elements of this service start from £900 plus VAT for a single Will or from £1,110 plus VAT for ‘mirror’ Wills and depend on your particular requirements. We’ll be able to give you an indication of the likely cost after an initial chat and, once we know more, we’ll confirm fees in writing before we proceed. We’ll also highlight other services that may be of interest to you such as advice on estate planning, powers of attorney, trusts and tax.

Sharia-compliant Islamic Wills

A Sharia-compliant Islamic Will  (Wasiyyah) can be suitable for Muslims who’d like their assets to pass in accordance with the principles of Sharia law. Our solicitors are experts in Sharia law compliance and can help you provide for your family in a way that follows your faith.

Wills Assured Service

As part of our online and postal Will Service, we also offer our Wills Assured Service  where you appoint Irwin Mitchell as your Executor.

This package of additional benefits is designed to make life simpler for you as you will have:

• Free lifetime secure Will storage (normally £100)
• Free minor updates to any subsequent Will when using our online or postal Will writing services
• 15% discount for our preparation of a lasting power of attorney

Reviewing or changing your existing Will (Adding a Codicil)

An up-to-date Will is essential for making sure your wishes reflect your current situation and includes everyone you wish.

It’s good practice to recheck your Will every five years, especially to make sure it considers any changes in tax regulations that might affect you.

We suggest reviewing your Will following major life changes, for example if:

• You get married or divorced
• Any of your beneficiaries get married or die
• New children or grandchildren are born, and you want them to inherit
• There’s a significant change in your financial circumstances
• You come into any inheritance – this could change the value of your estate and the Inheritance Tax payable.

With our Wills Assured Service , standard updates are free. That means you don’t have to worry about paying extra fees to keep your Will fit for purpose.

Deciding whether to make changes to your existing Will (adding a codicil) or to write a new one will depend on the scale and number of changes you want to make. A codicil is an addition to a Will that can amend or revoke parts of it. This can be suitable if there are just one or two small changes.

If you need any large revisions, it’s often better to write a new Will to avoid confusion. We can explore these options with you and advise on what’s best for you and your loved ones.

Accessing your documents

Your Will belongs to you, and we’ll happily store it for you and provide you with a copy when you need one. If at any stage you’d like your original Will returned to you, just let us know and we’ll tell you what we need to send it to you. When you die, your executors will need the original Will. We can explain the terms of the Will to them and help them deal with the probate process .

Contesting or defending a Will

If you’ve been left out of a Will, haven’t been left as much as you expected, or think the Will is wrong in some way, you might be able to contest it.

Contesting a Will can be challenging and feel daunting. With the help of our Will Disputes Team, we can support and guide you through the process. We can also help if you are an executor defending against a Will dispute .

Lasting Power Of Attorney

At the same time as thinking about your Will, it makes sense to also consider making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) . These are useful if you’re worried about losing the ability to manage your own affairs in the future. We can discuss the options with you and help you appoint the right person to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.

If you want to find out more,  contact the team today .

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Will Writing Services - More Information

How do i make a will.

Making a Will is simple. There’s a few ways to do it:

• Online – the questionnaire  only takes ten minutes to complete
• By post – download the form  and send it back to us
• By phone – call and speak to us
• In person – come and speak to us in one of our national offices

We recommend our online or postal service if your estate is relatively straightforward. If you have more complex requirements, or you’d like to talk about tax-planning or asset protection options such as setting up a trust, we advise speaking to us on the phone or coming in to see one of our experts.

Call us today for an initial consultation on 0370 1500 100 – or use our online enquiry form  and we’ll give you a call back.

How Much Does It Cost?

This depends on your requirements and the complexity of your estate. Standard Wills offered through our online service cost:

• £195 (including VAT) for a single Will
• £295 (including VAT) for ‘mirror’ Wills (for couples - if your needs are very similar).

If your estate is fairly straightforward we recommend this option. Get started with our online wills service  today.

You can also use our postal service by downloading the form and sending it in to us. The fees for this service are:

• £215 (including VAT) for a single Will
• £330 (including VAT) for ‘mirror’ Wills.

For both these services there may be additional costs if you need more complex advice. We would let you know about these before drafting your Will.

More complex and high value estates require more dedicated legal advice tailored to your needs, to ensure you and your loved ones are provided for in the most tax-efficient way .

For this service we recommend contacting the team to arrange an appointment with one of our experts who can let you know the options available to you.

What Should I Think About When Making My Will?

Everyone’s circumstances are different, but some of the things to consider when making a Will are:

• The value of your estate – inheritance tax (IHT) is generally due on anything over the £325,000 threshold (£650,000 for married couples and civil partners) once mortgage and other debts are deducted
• A new IHT allowance of £125,000 may apply if you own a property and leave some of your estate to relatives like children and grandchildren.
• How you own your assets – if you co-own property with your spouse, the type of tenancy you have will affect whether or not they can continue to live there after your death
• Who you want to leave your assets to (i.e. your beneficiaries)
• Who you would like to be the  executors of your estate
• Whether some assets would be best placed in a trust for asset protection purposes.

These are important decisions to make and you should seek legal advice to make sure your estate is structured in the best way for you and your beneficiaries.

Read through our Wills Checklist  to see if you’ve got everything covered.

Can You Store My Will?

Yes we can. Our specialist storage facility ensures your Will is kept secure from the risk of theft, fire or water damage. It also means it’s easily accessed after your death, giving you peace of mind and making things easier for your loved ones.

This service is free for our standard, bespoke and Wills Assured  clients.

Meet The Team

Our team has decades of experience helping people prepare, amend and execute Wills. We’re regularly appointed as executors and are very experienced in estate administration.

We also have experts in trust administration and tax compliance, which means we have everything you need to plan effectively.

We have considerable experience in complex estates and frequently work with international and high net worth clients.

Irwin Mitchell are a very professional, trustworthy and straightforward company to deal with. I would recommend them to anyone."

Elderly Care Crisis: A Tipping Point

Our new research predicts that the UK retirement living sector will run out of beds and face a multi-billion pound funding gap in the next 10 years.

This upcoming crisis means that planning ahead is more important then ever - find out more about how our Later Life Planning experts can help you prepare

Frequently Asked Questions

When do you need to review your will.

Having an up-to-date Will is essential to make sure your plans for your estate reflect your current situation and include everyone you want to include.

Its good practice to recheck your Will every five years, especially to make sure it takes into account any changes in tax regulations that might affect you.

You should also review your Will following major life changes, for example if:

• New children or grandchildren are born who you want to inherit
• You come into any inheritance – this could change the value of your estate and the Inheritance Tax payable

With our Wills Assured service, standard updates are free – so you don’t have to worry about paying extra fees to keep your Will fit for purpose.  Find out more.

Why Choose Irwin Mitchell?

Irwin Mitchell is a leading law firm with considerable expertise in the area of wills and estates. We’ve helped thousands of clients prepare for the future with strategic estate planning.

The team frequently receives five star reviews from our customers on Trustpilot, and we’re recognised in the leading UK legal guide, including the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners.

We’re adept at dealing with complex estates and also handling international probate issues for clients who have assets in different countries. We also have the benefit of acting as executor for many of our clients, which allows us to bring our detailed knowledge of the probate process into our will writing services.

We pride ourselves on providing clear advice in plain English, free from jargon, and our team is always on hand to discuss any questions you have.

Can You Help Me Change My Will?

Yes – we can help you write a new will or add a codicil to your existing will. A codicil is an addition to a Will that can amend or revoke parts of it. It can be enough if there are just one or two small changes, but if you need any substantial revisions it’s better to write a new Will to avoid confusion.

Our probate and tax experts can also check that your Will is structured in the best way for your estate and be able to advise on any amends where necessary.

Standard updates are free with our Wills Assured  service.

Related Information - Will Writing Services

About irwin mitchell.

Founded in Sheffield in 1912, Irwin Mitchell has always been a bit different. Our advisers really get to know the people and business that we help.

We have offices around the UK so wherever you are, our experts can help.

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Legal issues

Making a will is the only way to make sure your money, property, possessions and investments (known as your estate) go to the people and causes you care about.

How do I value my estate?

How do i divide my estate, how do i write my will, how do i make sure my will is valid, where should i store my will, how do i update my will, what happens if i don’t make a will.

Paul Lewis, financial expert and presenter of BBC Radio 4's Moneybox, explains why it's important to make a will.

Your will should cover your whole estate, so it's a good idea to draw up a list of your assets and debts. Then you have a clear idea of how much it's worth, which can help you decide how to distribute it.

Assets that typically make up an estate include:

• any property you own (in the UK or abroad)
• savings in banks, building societies or elsewhere (Premium Bonds, for instance)
• insurance such as life assurance or an endowment policy
• pension funds that include a lump sum payment on death
• investments such as stocks and shares or investment trusts
• jewellery, antiques and other valuable personal belongings
• furniture and other house contents.

Debts might include:

• a mortgage or equity release
• a credit card balance
• a bank overdraft

It's a good idea to get assets valued regularly. The price of your house, for instance, might have changed substantially since you last checked.

Your will needs to state clearly how you want your estate to be distributed, and who should be responsible for distributing it. Think about:

• who you want to benefit from your will
• whether you want to give any specific gifts to particular people
• where the 'residue' of the estate is to go (any property or money left over after paying funeral and administrative expenses, legacies and taxes)
• what you want to happen if any of your beneficiaries should die before you
• whether you want to leave any money to charity. 

Executors are legally responsible for dealing with someone's estate after their death. It can involve a lot of work and responsibility, so it's important to choose your executor (or executors) carefully.

When you're choosing who to appoint, you should talk to them to check they understand what's involved and that they're happy to do it.

Find out more about being an executor

Leaving a donation to charity

If you want to leave a gift to a charity in your will, include the charity’s full name, address and registered charity number to make sure they receive it.

• Leaving a legacy to Age UK

There are a few different ways you can write your will:

• It’s usually best to get advice from a lawyer (such as a solicitor or chartered legal executive). You might want to choose one who specialises in wills and probate. Check they're licensed with the relevant professional body, such as the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
• Some charities and campaigns offer free will-writing services to encourage people to make wills and leave charitable legacies. For more information, visit Will Aid or Free Wills Month – Age UK takes part in both schemes.
• Some banks offer will-writing services and advice about estate planning. An adviser at your local branch can explain what's on offer. Some banks charge high fees for these services – so it's important to read any small print carefully.

It's possible to use a professional will writer  to make your will, but they aren't qualified solicitors and may not be regulated – so if you decide to use one, first check whether they're a member of the Institute of Professional Willwriters or the Society of Will Writers.

You can also  make your own will , but it's easy to make mistakes or miss out important details. While it might seem like the best option now, it could cause costly legal problems for your executors and beneficiaries further down the line, so it's normally better to get professional advice.

For a will to be valid:

• it must be signed by you and witnessed by 2 people
• you must have mental capacity to make the will and understand the consequences of making it
• you must have made the will voluntarily and without pressure from anyone else.

The beginning of the will should state that it revokes all others. If you have an earlier will, you should destroy it. The government advises burning it safely or tearing it up.

Signing and witnessing the will

You must sign your will in the presence of 2 independent witnesses, who must also sign it in your presence – so all 3 people should be in the room together when each one signs. If the will is signed incorrectly, it isn't valid.

No one listed in the will as a beneficiary should act as a witness – they'll lose their right to their inheritance. They shouldn't even be in the room when the will is signed. It’s also best not to ask an executor to act as a witness.

If you can’t sign your will, it can be signed on your behalf as long as you’re in the room and it's signed at your direction. Any will signed on your behalf must contain a clause saying you understood the contents of the will before it was signed.

If you have a serious illness or dementia diagnosis, you can still make a will – but you need to have mental capacity for it to be valid. Your solicitor should make sure of this, and you may need a medical practitioner’s statement at the time the will is signed, certifying that you understand what you're signing.

You can leave your will with a solicitor or bank or with the Probate Service. Alternatively, you can store it safely at home.

Find your local Probate Service using the directory on GOV.UK

You must let your executors know where your will is kept. It's important not to attach any documents to the will with paperclips or staples – if they detach and leave marks it'll raise questions about whether the will is missing any parts or amendments.

You should review your will every 5 years or after a major change in your life – such as the birth of a new grandchild or moving house. But it's important you never make alterations to the original document.

If you want to make a minor change to your will, you can add a supplement, known as a codicil . This must be signed and witnessed in the same way as the will – although the witnesses don’t have to be the same as the original ones.

If you want to make a major change, you should make a new will and cancel your old one.

Do I need to change my will if I get remarried or divorced?

If you marry, remarry or enter a civil partnership, this cancels a previously existing will. Divorce doesn’t automatically invalidate a will made during the marriage – but it does exclude your ex-spouse or ex-civil partner from benefitting if they're mentioned.

You should arrange to make a new will if you marry, separate or divorce.

If you don’t make a will, you're said to have died  intestate – and your estate may not go to the people you want.

If you have a partner and you aren't married or in a civil partnership, they have no automatic right to inherit from you if you haven't made a will – even if you've lived together for a long time or have children.

Intestacy rules state that:

• If you're survived by a spouse or civil partner and children,  your spouse or civil partner will inherit all your personal possessions and at least the first £270,000 of your estate, plus half of anything above this amount. Your children are then entitled to the other half of this balance.
• If you're survived by a spouse or civil partner but don’t have children, your spouse or civil partner will inherit your whole estate, including any personal possessions.
• If you're survived by children but not a spouse or civil partner,  your children will inherit everything, divided equally between them.
• If you don't have a spouse, civil partner or children,  then other relatives inherit in a set order.
• If you have no surviving relatives who can inherit,  your estate will pass to the Crown.

Find out more about intestacy rules on GOV.UK

Want more information?

Wills and estate planning information guide (PDF, 3MB)

How to be an executor information guide (PDF, 2 MB)

You help make our work possible

Leaving a gift in your will to Age UK is a special way to make sure older people have the support they need in the years to come. Learn how a gift in your will could be a lifeline for those who have nowhere else to turn.

Find out more

We're here to help

We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.

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Last updated: Aug 23 2024

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Making a will

Write your will.

Your will should set out:

• who you want to benefit from your will
• who should look after any children under 18
• who is going to sort out your estate and carry out your wishes after your death (your executor)
• what happens if the people you want to benefit die before you

You can also include a charity in your will .

When you need legal advice

You can get advice from a professional if your will is not straightforward, for example:

• you share a property with someone who is not your husband, wife or civil partner
• you want to leave money or property to a dependant who cannot care for themselves
• you have several family members who may make a claim on your will, such as a second spouse or children from another marriage
• your permanent home is outside the UK
• you have property overseas
• you have a business

Keep your will safe

You can keep your will at your home or store it with:

• your solicitor
• a company that offers the storage of wills - you can search online
• the national probate registry in Newcastle

Read full guidance on storing your will with the Probate Service .

You should tell your executor (the person you’ve chosen to carry out your will), a close friend or relative where your will is.

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Free Will-Writing Service

Write or update your Will for free with Amref and Farewill

Whether you’re retiring, starting a family or moving house, it’s important to have a Will.

We've partnered with expert will writing services, Farewill, so you can write or update your Will for free.

Write your Will for free online

You can write a Will online in as little as 30 minutes, from  the comfort of your own home. All you need to do is go online to farewill.com/ amref  and follow instructions. Your free Will code 'AMREF' will then automatically apply at check-out.

Speak to an advisor

If you would prefer to speak to an advisor, you can phone Farewill and setup an appointment to speak to an expert. They will assist you in making a Will, for free. You can contact Farewill by dialling 0208 050 2686 and quoting Amref.

There is no obligation to leave a gift in your Will. However, a gift in your Will to Amref Health Africa is one of the most powerful ways you can help create lasting health change in Africa. A gift of any amount could have an enormous impact, helping to transform many lives.

Contact us to find out more

If you have questions about leaving a gift in your Will to Amref or would just like to discuss it, with no obligations, you can contact us at [email protected] or call us on  +44 020 7269 5520 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).

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