3 things to know before writing your Will
I’m Lily, pictured above next to my colleague Niall, we both work in CAFOD’s gifts in Wills team. In my role I frequently speak to people who are going through the process of writing their Will. Whilst I know some people put off thinking about their Will, it’s something I think about a lot. Did you know that around 60% of adults in the UK don’t have a Will? From speaking to supporters and colleagues I’ve learned some insights and tips that I know will help me when it’s time to sort out my plans. I thought I would share three things that I have learnt.
1. It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive
One of the biggest misconceptions about writing a Will is that it will be a time-consuming and costly process. The truth is, it doesn’t have to be. Writing your Will requires careful thought, but there are simple and affordable ways to put your plans in place. CAFOD supporters Imelda and Chris used CAFOD’s Free Will Service to write their Will. They said:
“The solicitor was very good and the process very quick and painless. We both like the idea of leaving a charitable legacy and CAFOD was the obvious choice for us. We know the difference CAFOD makes every day to the lives of those less fortunate than ourselves.”
CAFOD’s Free Will Service is a good opportunity to get your affairs in order for free. You can find out more about it on CAFOD’s Free Will Service page.
2. Think through your plans and choose your executors
Before you make your Will, it’s helpful to take some time to think through your plans. Consider what you want to include in your Will and who you would like to appoint as your executors. Your executors can be professionals, such as solicitors or banks, or they can be trusted relatives or friends. If nominating someone who isn’t a professional, please check they are willing to take on this substantial responsibility.
CAFOD’s Will Guide includes a handy planner that can help you gather your thoughts and prepare for your meeting with a solicitor. The guide covers key points such as making a list of your assets, deciding on your beneficiaries, and considering any charitable gifts you might like to include. This preparation can make the process smoother and help ensure that all your wishes are clearly communicated.
3. You’ll feel relieved once it’s done
Many people have told me how relieved they feel once their Will is written, like Fergus who spoke to us after using CAFOD’s online free Will service:
“We’d been putting off writing a Will for some time, but my wife and I found the online service very quick and straightforward. It was a relief to get our affairs sorted and make sure our loved ones are looked after, with the added bonus of helping the great work of CAFOD at the same time.”
Knowing your plans are in place and that your loved ones will be taken care of brings great peace of mind. Taking this important step reduces the burden on your loved ones during a difficult time and ensures your wishes are carried out as intended.
If you are yet to put your plans in place I hope these tips have reassured you that writing your Will doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By taking some time to think through your plans and using resources like CAFOD’s Will guide and Free Will Service, you can make the process straightforward and stress-free. It’s also reassuring to remember that, once it’s done, you’ll feel a great sense of relief knowing your plans are in place.
If you have any questions or want to know more about our Free Will Service or gifts in Wills, please get in touch. Email legacy@cafod.org.uk or call me on 020 7095 5367.