A will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever create. It ensures your wishes are respected, your loved ones are cared for and your assets are distributed as you intend.
At LifeSearch, we believe in protecting people properly, and that includes ensuring your legacy is secure. That’s why we’ve partnered with Which? so you can not only access expert guidance on wills, but also purchase your will directly through them.
This guide will take you through what a will is, the steps to writing one and common mistakes to avoid, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.
How we can help
LifeSearch has teamed up with Which?, to help you get your will sorted. Our wills start from £89.10 for a single will, or £140.40 for pairs of wills & mirror wills.
*These prices include a 10% discount, offered by Which. Visit their website to read the full Terms & Conditions.
What is a will and why is it important?
A will is a legal document that sets out your wishes for how your assets, property and possessions should be managed and distributed after you pass away. It allows you to name beneficiaries, appoint guardians for children and ensure your estate is handled according to your instructions.
Having a will isn’t just a formality, it’s a vital way to protect your loved ones and avoid complications. Without one, your estate is divided according to inheritance laws rather than your personal wishes, which can cause delays, disputes and unintended outcomes. A clear will gives you control, reduces stress for your family and helps prevent disagreements or legal battles.
In some cases, people also use a trust alongside their will to manage how their assets are distributed and potentially avoid probate.
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process that gives your executor the authority to deal with your estate after you pass away. It involves valuing your assets, paying any debts or taxes and distributing what remains to your beneficiaries.
Not every estate requires probate. For example, jointly owned assets may pass directly to the surviving owner, but larger or more complex estates often do. The process can take several months and, if handled incorrectly, may cause delays or disputes.
Having a valid, up-to-date will makes probate much simpler. It gives your executor clear instructions to follow and helps ensure your estate is dealt with efficiently and according to your wishes.
How much does a will cost?
Wills via Which? start from just £89.10* for a single will, or £140.40 for mirror wills (for couples). The right will for you depends on your personal circumstances, and a short questionnaire will help you find the most suitable will for you.
Via the LifeSearch and Which? partnership, there is a special offer of 30% off wills. This means that, compared with standard full price, you’ll pay significantly less. Don’t forget, the cost may vary depending on the type of will, such as single or mirror, and there may be additional costs for any extra services, such as storage and amendments in the future.
*Prices correct as of 25/11/2025
Steps to creating a will
1. Choose your executors and beneficiaries
An executor is the person responsible for ensuring your wishes are carried out after you pass away. Choose someone trustworthy, such as a family member, close friend, or a legal professional. You’ll also need to decide who will inherit your assets which may include family, friends, charities, or specific organisations. These people are known as your beneficiaries.
2. Outline your assets and liabilities
Make a detailed list of everything you own, including property, savings, investments, personal belongings, and digital assets such as online accounts, domain names, cryptocurrencies, cloud storage files and digital photos. Also, account for any liabilities such as mortgages, loans or outstanding debts. Understanding your full financial picture ensures your estate is divided fairly and efficiently.
3. Draft your will
Your will should clearly state:
- Your name and confirmation that this is your last will and testament.
- Who will act as your executor(s).
- How your estate will be distributed among your beneficiaries.
- Any specific gifts or donations you want to make.
- Guardianship wishes if you have children. While you can write a will yourself, it’s advisable to consult a legal professional to ensure it is valid and meets all legal requirements.
4. Sign and store your will
For a will to be legally binding, it must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. Once signed, store it safely. This could be with a solicitor, a will storage service or even in a secure place at home. Inform your executor where it is kept so they can access it when needed.
Common mistakes when writing a will
When writing a will, it’s important to be aware of frequent errors that can create confusion or even make the document invalid. Some of the most common mistakes people make are:
- Using unclear or ambiguous language - vague terms or unspecified assets can lead to disputes or legal challenges. Be precise, clearly state who inherits what and include full names and details.
- Having invalid witnesses - a valid will requires two independent witnesses who are not beneficiaries. Having family members or beneficiaries sign can create conflicts of interest and invalidate the will.
- Failing to update regularly - life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children or major financial changes should prompt a review. An outdated will may no longer reflect your true wishes.
If you have any questions or need expert guidance, LifeSearch is here to help. Get in touch today to ensure your legacy is secure and your future is planned with confidence.
Frequently asked questions about wills
If you pass away intestate (without a will), your estate will be distributed according to legal inheritance rules, which may not align with your wishes.
Your executor is the person (or people) responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will and managing your estate after you pass away. Their role can include tasks such as collecting assets, paying debts, handling tax matters and distributing your estate to beneficiaries.
You can appoint a single executor or choose multiple executors (up to four). Many people select a trusted family member or friend, while others prefer to appoint a professional, such as a solicitor, especially if their estate is complex. The most important thing is to choose someone reliable, organised and capable of handling both the practical and administrative responsibilities involved.
Yes, you should review and update your will after major life events such as marriage, divorce or having children.
Your will must be signed by you and witnessed by two independent people (who cannot be beneficiaries) to be legally binding. Although you can write a will yourself, it’s recommended to seek legal advice to ensure it is valid and legally sound.
Absolutely, you can include charitable gifts in your will, ensuring your legacy supports causes that matter to you.
Keep it in a safe place, such as with a solicitor, will storage service or a secure location at home, and make sure your executor knows where to find it.
A will sets out how your assets will be distributed after you pass away and must go through probate, which can take time. A trust allows you to manage and distribute assets during your lifetime or after death, often avoiding probate and providing more control. For more on trusts, visit our Policy in Trust page.
Not always. Smaller estates, or those where assets are jointly owned, may not require probate. However, larger or more complex estates often do. Probate gives your executor the legal authority to manage your estate - valuing assets, settling debts, paying any taxes and distributing what remains to your beneficiaries. Having a valid will makes this process much smoother and helps avoid delays or disputes.