Family / Sponsored Feature
Why it’s so important to make a Will?
Writing a Will probably isn’t top of anyone’s to-do list. In fact, over half of all UK adults haven’t made one, with younger people the least prepared; three-quarters of people in their thirties haven’t drawn up the documents, and only 59 per cent of those in their fifties have formalized their affairs. In fact, research by ‘Remember a Charity’ found that the average age Britons finally put pen to paper is 72. That’s cutting it fine when the average woman in the UK lives to 81 and men to 77.
“In this world nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes,” said Benjamin Franklin. So why do so many of us put off writing a Will?
One reason is people’s assumption that they aren’t wealthy enough to bother. Others are putting it off until they’re older, and assuming that their estate will end up in the right place.
is needed now More than ever
Karen Barrett, chief executive of unbiased.co.uk, which conducted research into our reluctance to write a Will, suggested that it’s the idea that we shy away from: “Our research made two especially interesting findings, which are rather at odds with each other. We confirmed that people really do want to ensure their loved ones are taken care of after they’ve gone – but that most aren’t doing anything about this. Writing a Will clearly has significant emotional implications, so it’s likely that people delay doing it through a mixture of denial and simply not getting around to it.
‘People should also remember that it’s simple, inexpensive, and saves families from a significant amount of extra stress. Now that pension freedom has completely rewritten the rule book on what can and cannot be inherited, making your wishes legally binding has never been more essential. And it should go without saying that it’s never too early to start planning.’
Elm Legal Services are a local firm, offering a friendly, experienced, face to face service and have helped thousands of people make secure plans for the future. Call them to receive a 20% discount on single or joint wills in February.
Contact: http://elm-online.co.uk/ 0117 952 0698
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