Latest figures have revealed that of the 51 million adults living in the UK, 27 million (53%) do not have a Will.
The research carried out by Will Aid shows that:
- One in ten people between 75-84 do not have a Will in place
- Over a quarter (26%) of the 65-74 age group have no Will
- Almost 70% of cohabiting couples do not have a Will
- 57% of parents have no Will
In the oldest age group (75-84), the percentage with a Will has increased from 82 per cent in 2014 to 90 per cent, but it still leaves one in ten of those now in later life currently unprotected.
Furthermore, with almost 70 per cent of cohabiting couples having no Will, it means that the surviving partner would have no automatic right to inherit when their loved one passes away. It could make an already distressing time even more upsetting for them, particularly if they had assumed they would inherit the home they lived in together.
When it comes to parents, the figures have revealed that over half (57%) have no Will and a further 31 per cent, whilst they do have a Will in place, have not named guardians to look after their children should they pass away before their children reach 18.
Worryingly, even those with a Will are at risk, as over one in five (21%) have apparently never reviewed their Wills and a further 30 per cent have not revisited it for over three years.
This is despite a quarter of people with a Will having a change in circumstances (such as marriage, children, or divorce) since they had their legal documents arranged. It means their most recent Will could now be invalid or could be completely different to what they would now wish to happen.
Why have a Will?
Nobody likes to think about the time when their Will is going to be needed, but by taking some time to arrange things now, you could ensure that your estate and your loved ones are protected in the future.
If you do not have a Will in place, or your current Will has been rendered invalid, everything you own will be divided according to the Laws of Intestacy.
You might be surprised to learn that your children, or perhaps your cohabiting partner, could inherit nothing. How would that impact their lives when you are not around to help them anymore?
How do I arrange one?
At Bower we understand how important it is to safeguard your own financial future and that of your loved ones. That is why we are delighted to offer a professional Will Writing and Lasting Powers of Attorney service in partnership with Arbour Legal Services.
We will discuss your individual priorities and wishes before arranging your bespoke document which will be posted out to you to sign. It is an entirely hassle-free, personalised service conducted over the phone and by post for your ease.
Speak to our friendly and professional team today to get things started. Call free phone [tel] or visit https://www.bowerhomefinance.co.uk/wills-and-lpas/wills