There are many logical reasons why choosing to write a will makes perfect sense…. however, have you ever considered the 7 reasons why not to write a Will? Please take these in the humorous style they have been written.
1. I hate my children and want them never to speak to each other again after they battle over my Estate.
The death of a partner, parent or other loved one is always a distressing time. The stress of the situation can be increased further when the Will is challenged and claims are made by others to share the Estate.
According to Unbiased 11% of people who had not made a Will assumed that their Estate will automatically go to the right person when they die.
Wrong!
If an Estate dispute is between family members or based around certain people not being entitled to what they expected, further problems may arise and sibling fuelled rivalry can lead to future family difficulties.
2. I hate my spouse/partner and want him/her to suffer the agony of attempting to probate my Estate without a Will
If you are not in a civil partnership with your partner they will not be automatically be entitled to any of your estate. Your partner will not be able to apply for a grant of representation if you are not.
3. I think foster care is great and I want my minor children placed there whilst a court decides which greedy relative will get custody
A will clearly outlines who should receive custody of a child in circumstances where both parents have died. However, by not having a will in place you risk your child being put into foster care. Bereavement charity ‘Winston’s Wish’ reported that over 24,000 children are bereaved of a parent each year in Britain. It is estimated by the UK fostering network that a child is put into foster care every 22 minutes within the UK.
4. I’m not sure about my funeral arrangements so I’ll let my family surprise me
Planning what you would like to happen at your funeral may sound morbid. However, doing so allows you to ensure that you have your wishes met after your death as well as providing your relatives and loved ones’ peace of mind, due to the fact they can arrange a service which you wanted.
5. My family doesn’t need the money so I want the Government to take as much of my Estate for taxes as possible
The level of Inheritance Tax (IHT) paid to the UK Government is astronomical; between April and October this year soared to £3.2 billion. IHT is charged at 40 per cent on any Estate worth more than £325,000, including property. Due to spiralling house prices this is affecting a greater number of people than in previous decades.
6. I’m happy for my hard-earned money to be spent on paying for my long-term care costs
Going into Long Term Care is not something anyone wants to think about, let alone having to sell a home to pay for it. There are ways to protect your assets for your loved ones. Through utilising a will you are able to prevent the loss of your home while still being able to afford long term care in old age. However, due to the process, time is of the essence.
7. I have reliable information that I am never ever going to die
……
The reality is that none of us know when our time will be up. By not having a Will in place, you are risking making life far more difficult for your loved ones when they will be without you.
Get In Touch with us to get a Will sorted and remove the risk.