Do you have will-power?

clock

Writing and maintaining a valid will is vital if clients and their families are to plan ahead with any security. Bob Perkins outlines what needs to be done

A very large proportion of the population in the UK have no wills in place. Many may not even think about it until later in life and even if they do have them they are reviewed infrequently. However, taking no action can cause significant problems and uncertainty for those left behind. Many people believe that if they are married they do not need a will because their spouse's property becomes theirs automatically. In England, jointly owned assets pass to the survivor but in Scotland, the law in relation to survivorship is different. Couples who are not married or joined in a Civil Par...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Estate planning

HMRC nets £6.3bn from IHT in first three quarters of 2024/25

HMRC nets £6.3bn from IHT in first three quarters of 2024/25

December receipts totalled £620m up 13%

Jenna Brown
clock 22 January 2025 • 4 min read
Surge in probate delays following inheritance tax changes

Surge in probate delays following inheritance tax changes

134% rise in year-long cases

Cameron Roberts
clock 16 January 2025 • 1 min read
Why IHT on pensions is a huge capital drawdown opportunity for wealth advisers

Why IHT on pensions is a huge capital drawdown opportunity for wealth advisers

'Opportunity for advisers to focus on a new approach to later life financial and tax planning'

Will Hale
clock 19 December 2024 • 5 min read