Posted: Tuesday, 18 November 2025 @ 09:37
Your Will is like a roadmap for your family's future—but what happens when the landscape changes? Life doesn't stand still, and neither should your Will. A document that was perfect five years ago might not reflect your current wishes or circumstances today.
When Life Changes, Your Will Should Too
Think of your Will as a living document that should evolve with you. Regular reviews ensure it continues to protect exactly who you want, in exactly the way you intend.
🔄 The Golden Rule: Review Every 3-5 Years
Even if nothing major has changed, it's wise to review your Will periodically. Laws change, relationships evolve, and your financial situation may be different. A regular check-up keeps your estate plan healthy and current.
Key Life Events That Trigger a Will Review
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Marriage or Civil Partnership
Why it matters: In England and Wales, getting married automatically revokes any existing Will. If you don't make a new one, the rules of intestacy apply—which might not reflect your wishes.
Create a new Will that includes your spouse and reflects your shared plans
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Divorce or Separation
Why it matters: While divorce doesn't automatically revoke your Will, it does cancel any gifts to your former spouse. This can create unintended consequences in how your estate is distributed.
Update your Will to reflect your new circumstances and wishes
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New Children or Grandchildren
Why it matters: Welcoming new family members is joyful, but your existing Will might not provide for them adequately or appoint guardians if they're minors.
Include new family members and consider guardianship arrangements
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Moving House or Major Financial Changes
Why it matters: Significant changes in your assets—buying property, receiving an inheritance, or starting a business—can affect how you want your estate distributed.
Ensure your Will reflects your current financial picture
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Changes in Relationships
Why it matters: If your chosen executors or beneficiaries have passed away, moved away, or your relationship has changed, your Will needs updating.
Review and update executors, guardians, and beneficiaries
How to Update Your Will: The Right Way
Step 1: Professional Review
Consult with a professional Willwriter to assess what needs changing
Step 2: Choose the Right Approach
Depending on the changes needed, you might create a new Will or add a Codicil
Step 3: Proper Execution
Ensure your updated Will is correctly signed and witnessed
⚠️ Important: Never Try to Amend Your Will Yourself
Crossing out sections, writing in changes, or using correction fluid can make your entire Will invalid. Always seek professional help to make amendments properly.
Two Ways to Make Changes
1. Creating a New Will
Best for: Major changes, multiple updates, or after significant life events. A new Will automatically revokes your previous one and starts fresh with your current wishes.
2. Adding a Codicil
Best for: Small, straightforward changes like updating an executor's address or changing a specific gift. A Codicil is a legal supplement to your existing Will that must be signed and witnessed with the same formalities.
Your Will Review Checklist
- Has your marital status changed?
- Have there been additions to your family?
- Have your financial circumstances changed significantly?
- Are your chosen executors and guardians still appropriate?
- Have any beneficiaries passed away or circumstances changed?
- Has it been more than 3-5 years since your last review?
- Have there been relevant changes in law or taxation?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, it's time to speak with a professional.
Keep Your Will Current, Keep Your Family Protected
An up-to-date Will is one of the most caring gifts you can give your family. It ensures your wishes are clear, reduces stress during a difficult time, and provides certainty when it's needed most.
Ready to review your Will? A member of The Institute of Professional Willwriters can help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure your Will accurately reflects your current wishes and circumstances.
Professional Guidance Recommended: This article provides general information about Will reviews. Estate planning should be tailored to your individual circumstances. We recommend consulting with a qualified professional Willwriter for personalised advice.