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Why should I make a will?
When you make a will, you can say how your funeral should be dealt with, and what will happen to your possessions and assets when you die. If you die without making a will (called 'dying intestate'), it can be complicated to work out who will get what.
The Administration of Estates Act 1925 sets out who can apply to deal with your affairs if you die intestate (called 'administering the estate') and how your belongings are to be shared. But several people may have an equal right to administer your estate (for example, your children). When several people are equally entitled to act as administrator, the usual rule is 'first-come, first-served'. However, without a will, there may be dispute or uncertainty.
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Related
Articles
Financial reasons to make a will
What makes a will valid?
Who can be a witness?
What does an executor or administrator do?
Will I have to pay inheritance tax?
Who takes charge if there is no will?
Who gets the estate if there is no will?
What can I do if I think there is something wrong with the will?
What can I do if I think the will is unfair?
What if there isn't enough money to pay for the funeral?
What if there isn't enough money to pay the person's debts?
Terms used in wills and probate matters
Further help
About this leaflet
Making a will
Guidance on making a will, plus information on where to get further help
What to do if there is no will
At what age should I write a will?
The age at which one should write a will depends, to some extent, on individual circumstances.
DIY wills: should I draft my own will?
There are lots of methods that you can use to write your own will.
Revoking a will
Ways to avoid inheritance tax
When do I need to rewrite my will?
If you have a will, there are certain circumstances where you might need to rewrite your will.
Wills FAQs
Writing a valid will: a checklist
Inheritance planning and avoiding tax
Everything you need to know about the intestacy rules
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