News & Views

How To Keep Your Will Up-To-Date: Essential Estate Planning Tips

October is Will Month, a timely reminder to ensure your will continues to reflect your values, wishes, and the life you are living today.

Here at Wells Gibson, we want you to feel assured that your loved ones are protected and that your wishes are clearly understood, both today and in the years ahead. A current, well-considered will is an important part of that. Beyond its legal purpose, it offers the certainty that your family is protected, and your legacy secured.

We believe a will isn’t just about distributing assets, it’s about expressing your values and the story you want to continue beyond your lifetime. Even if you have already have a will, life changes can mean it’s time to review it. Marriage, divorce, and the arrival of children or grandchildren, changes to property or finances, or a move abroad can all affect your plans. 

Why a Will Matters

A will allows you to:

  • Decide how your estate is distributed

  • Appoint trusted people to carry out your wishes

  • Protect your loved ones and preserve your legacy

Without a valid will, the law decides for you, which may not reflect your intentions. Regular review ensures your wishes remain current and your family is cared for.

When to Review Your Will

It’s wise to review or update your will after significant life events, including:

  • Marriage or civil partnership

  • Divorce or seperation

  • Birth or adoption of children or grandchildren

  • Significant financial changes, such as buying or selling property

  • Loss of an executor or beneficiary

  • Relocation, at home or abroad

Even seemingly small changes can have a meaningful impact, making a review an important step towards peace of mind.

When reviewing your will, take time to consider:

  • Are your executors and guardians still appropriate?

  • Do your beneficiaries reflect your current wishes?

  • Have your charitable intentions changed?

  • Are your digital assets (online accounts, photos, etc.) covered?

  • Have you reviewed inheritance tax implications recently?

How We Can Support You

While we do not provide will-writing services ourselves, we can connect you with a trusted professional specialising in wills and estate planning*.

Working with these experts ensures that your legal arrangements complement your broader financial plan, giving confidence that your loved ones and your legacy are secure.

Take a Moment This Will Month

This Will Month is an ideal opportunity to reflect on the people who matter most to you.

Ask yourself: Is your will aligned with the life you are living today and the legacy you wish to leave behind?

Even a simple review can provide clarity reassurance, and peace of mind for the future.

Get in touch with us, and we can connect you with a trusted professional to review or update your will, helping to ensure your family is protected and your wishes are fully respected.

References:

Please note: Wells Gibson does not provide legal advice. Any will or estate planning services are provided by a qualified legal professional to whom we can introduce you.

This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. You should seek independent legal advice from a qualified solicitor before making or updating a will.

Will Month is a national awareness initiative that takes place each October, encouraging individuals and families to review or create their wills.

Inheritance tax rules and thresholds are subject to change. Always seek personalised guidance to ensure your arrangements remain tax-efficient and up to date.

Wells Gibson Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FRN 731027