Writing a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are followed after you pass away. Yet, surprisingly, over half of adults don’t have a valid will or have one that’s outdated. The good news is that there are plenty of affordable and even free options available to help you write your will without spending a fortune. This guide covers everything you need to know about cheap and free will-writing services in 2025, including charity schemes, solicitor options, DIY methods, and important tips to get started.
Why You Need a Will
A will is a legally binding document that outlines how you want your money, property, and possessions (your estate) to be distributed after your death. Without a will, your estate will be divided according to the law of intestacy, which may not reflect your wishes and can lead to disputes among family members.
Key reasons to write a will include:
- Protecting dependent children: You can appoint legal guardians and ensure your children are financially supported.
- Cohabiting without marriage: Without a will, your partner may not inherit anything.
- Avoiding inheritance tax: Proper planning can reduce the tax burden on your estate.
- Reflecting life changes: Marriage, divorce, or new children mean your will should be updated.
- Specifying funeral wishes: You can leave instructions to ease the burden on your family.
- Handling overseas property or complex estates: A will ensures your assets abroad are managed correctly.
Free Wills Month: Write Your Will for Free
One of the best ways to get a solicitor-drafted will without paying is through Free Wills Month, held twice a year in March and October. During this campaign, many charities partner with solicitors across the UK to offer free will-writing services to people aged 55 and over.
How it works:
- Check if your area is participating by entering your postcode on the Free Wills Month website.
- Book an appointment with a participating solicitor early, as slots fill quickly.
- You can have a simple will written or updated for free, either face-to-face, by phone, or via video call.
- While there’s no obligation, charities hope you’ll consider leaving a gift in your will to support their work.
Charities involved include Age UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, British Heart Foundation, NSPCC, and many others. If your estate is complex or valued over £325,000, you may need to pay extra for additional legal advice.
Charity and Low-Cost Will Writing Services
Besides Free Wills Month, many charities and organisations offer ongoing free or low-cost will-writing services, often in exchange for a charitable bequest. For example:
- Octopus Legacy: Offers free solicitor-checked wills for simple estates during March and October, with discounted rates for complex wills.
- Will Aid: Runs in November, where solicitors waive fees in return for a charitable donation. Suggested donations are typically £100 for a single will or £180 for a pair of mirror wills.
- Trade Unions and Employer Schemes: Some unions and employers provide free will-writing services to members or staff.
You can also find local solicitors through the Law Society or the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Calling around for quotes can save you £100 or more.
DIY and Online Will Writing: A Budget-Friendly Option
If your affairs are straightforward, you might consider writing your own will using online templates or services. Some platforms, like Free Wills, offer free online wills checked by solicitors, providing a good balance of affordability and legal assurance.
DIY wills are suitable only if your wishes are simple-for example, leaving everything to your spouse or children. Complex situations, such as blended families or overseas assets, require professional advice to avoid mistakes that could invalidate your will.
Remember:
- Your will must be signed and witnessed properly to be valid.
- Mistakes or vague wording can cause disputes or delays.
- DIY wills don’t offer the protection or recourse available with solicitors.
Important Tips When Writing Your Will
- Choose your executors carefully: These are the people who will manage your estate after your death. Avoid appointing solicitors or banks as executors unless you want to pay significant fees.
- Store your will safely: Solicitors often store wills for free. You can also register your will with the National Will Register to ensure it’s found when needed.
- Update your will as needed: Major life events like marriage, divorce, or having children should prompt a review of your will.
- Consider trusts for vulnerable beneficiaries: If you want to provide for someone with special needs, a trust can protect their inheritance.
- Beware of pre-paid or subscription will-writing services: Some may charge ongoing fees for updates-always check terms carefully.
Writing a will doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Between charity schemes like Free Wills Month, low-cost solicitor services, and reliable online platforms, there are plenty of options to suit your needs and budget. The most important thing is to get your affairs in order to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected.
If you’re aged 55 or over, keep an eye out for Free Wills Month in March and October and book early to secure your free appointment. For others, online will-writing services and local solicitors offer affordable and trustworthy alternatives.