April 2024

Free Will Month In April 2024

Free Will Month allows individuals to have their wills drafted or revised without charge by participating solicitors.

This article will discuss the Free Will Month campaign, drafting a will, and the benefits of doing so for you and your preferred charities.

You can listen to an audio recording of this page below.

The Free Wills Month Campaign

The Free Wills Month campaign is held twice a year-round, in March and October, to raise awareness of the significance of having a valid will.

Solicitors from select locations in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland offer their will-writing services for gratis as part of the initiative.

This raises awareness of the importance of bequests to charities, ultimately increasing financial support for their essential services.

Participating in Free Wills Month

To take advantage of Free Wills Month, individuals must first access the official website to locate local solicitors participating. During the campaign, appointments can be scheduled with a chosen attorney, typically on a first-come, first-served basis.

It is necessary to mention complimentary Wills Month when scheduling a position to receive the complimentary service.

Who Is Eligible for Free Wills Month?

Some participating solicitors may extend the offer next free wills month to younger individuals during Free Wills Month. The campaign addresses the construction of straightforward wills, such as simple, mirror, and joint wills for couples.

The Free Wills Month promotion may not cover complex wills involving intricate estate planning.

Benefits of Writing a Will

Having a will ensures your wishes are fulfilled after your death, providing you and your loved ones peace of mind.

A will can specify how your estate will be distributed among your beneficiaries, reducing the likelihood of disputes and inheritance tax liabilities.

In addition, a will can include instructions for the guardianship of any minor children, ensuring their care is entrusted to the individuals you select.

Leaving a Gift to Charity

Many individuals leave a legacy to one or more charities, supporting causes dear to their hearts. This can significantly impact the chosen charities’ work, allowing them to continue providing essential services to vulnerable individuals.

Gifts left in wills can be a fixed amount, a percentage of the estate, or even specific assets, such as real estate or stocks.

Updating an Existing Will

If you already have a will, you can also have it reviewed and updated free by a participating attorney during Free Wills Month. Changes in your situation, such as marriage, divorce, or child delivery, may necessitate alterations to your will.

Regular evaluations and revisions ensure your choice accurately reflects your present wishes and circumstances.

Online Will Writing Services

Those who prefer a more convenient and accessible option have access to free online will-writing services in addition to the traditional solicitor-led option.

Some organisations, such as Age UK and Co-op Legal Services, offer eligible individuals free or discounted will-writing services.

Typically, these online services require completing a questionnaire and delivering a legally binding will ready to be signed and witnessed.

Planning Beyond a Will

Although a will is essential to estate planning, you should also consider taking additional steps to safeguard your interests and wishes.

One such measure is a durable power of attorney, which allows you to appoint trusted individuals to handle your financial and personal affairs if you become incapacitated.

Free Wills Month is an important initiative encouraging individuals to safeguard their futures by drafting or revising a will. This provides peace of mind and assists numerous charities in their efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals.

The Role of Solicitors in Free Wills Month

Participating solicitors are essential to the success of Free Wills Month. They provide complimentary will-writing services to those who qualify by donating their time and expertise.

This partnership between local solicitors and the Free Wills Month campaign raises awareness of the significance of wills and the potential advantages of leaving a gift to charity.

Financially Supporting Charities through Free Wills Month

A consortium of well-known UK charities, including Age UK and the Salvation Army, provides financial support for Free Wills Month.

These organisations benefit from bequests written during the campaign, which help finance their essential services throughout the year.

By participating in Free Wills Month, you can preserve your legacy while contributing to the long-term financial stability of the charities of your choice.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Advice

You must seek professional assistance when drafting a will to ensure that your will is legally valid and accurately reflects your wishes.

Using a participating attorney during Free Wills Month can provide you with a free, comprehensive will-writing service, according to our analysis.

This guarantees that your wishes distribute your estate and that any potential inheritance tax liability is minimised.

Preparing for Your Free Wills Month Appointment

It would be best if you were well-prepared to make the most of your appointment during Free Wills Month. Before your appointment, gather pertinent information, such as your assets, liabilities, and potential beneficiaries.

This will allow your chosen attorney to provide the most pertinent advice and tailor your will to your specific requirements.

Free Wills Month in Scotland and Northern Ireland

While Free Wills Month primarily focuses on England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have similar initiatives.

These campaigns encourage individuals to draught or update their wills, ensuring their assets are distributed according to their desires.

Visit the official Free Wills Month website for more information on participating solicitors and upcoming Free Wills Month events in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Importance of Keeping Your Will Up-to-Date

In our experience, updating your will is essential to reflect your wishes accurately. Changes in your circumstances, such as adding new family members or altering the status of your preferred charities, may necessitate modifications to your will.

Engaging a solicitor to review and revise your will during Free Wills Month ensures that your legacy is preserved and your beneficiaries are cared for according to your wishes.

"Having a will ensures your wishes are fulfilled after your death, providing you and your loved ones peace of mind."

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Making Provisions for Loved Ones

An essential aspect of composing a will is ensuring that your loved ones are adequately provided for after your death.

According to our research, including specific provisions for family members, acquaintances, and even pets in your will can provide peace of mind and prevent potential conflicts.

During Free Wills Month, you can create a legally binding document that protects the interests of those you care about by having your will drafted, written or revised.

Limited Availability of Free Wills Month Services

Due to the prevalence of Free Wills Month, participating solicitors frequently have limited appointment availability at a later date.

According to our analysis, securing an appointment with chosen solicitor early in the campaign is highly recommended, particularly for the next Free Wills Month in October 2023.

Doing so allows you to take advantage of the complimentary will writing service and ensure your estate planning requirements are met.

Complex Wills and Additional Costs

While Free Wills Month covers simple wills, more complex estate planning may incur additional fees.

For example, if your estate consists of multiple properties, foreign assets, or complex inheritance tax planning, the participating solicitor may charge fees for their expertise in handling such matters.

It is essential to discuss potential costs with your selected attorney in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Gifts in Wills and Their Impact on Charities

Numerous organisations rely significantly on legacies to fund their essential services. Our research indicates that legacies are a substantial source of revenue for countless UK-based charities.

By including a bequest in your will during Free Wills Month, you can support the essential work of your favourite charities and make a lasting difference in the lives of those who rely on their services.

The Role of Co-op Legal Services in Free Wills Month

Co-op Legal Services is one of the organisations participating in Free Wills Month, offering services to individuals who qualify and need a will draft or updated.

Co-op Legal Services, a law firm committed to supporting local communities, is crucial in advocating the significance of wills and the value of leaving gifts in wills or charities.

The Significance of Free Wills Month Year-Round

Although Free Wills Month occurs twice yearly, its effects are felt yearly. The campaign raises awareness of the significance of having a valid will and encourages individuals to consider the advantages of supporting their preferred charities through bequests.

This ongoing support sustains the vital services provided by charities throughout the United Kingdom, making an enduring difference in the lives of countless people.

Lasting Power of Attorney and Free Wills Month

Even though Free Wills Month focuses primarily on creating and revising wills, it is essential to consider other aspects of estate planning, such as a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).

An LPA is a legal document allowing you to appoint a trusted individual to decide for you if you lose mental capacity.

While this service may not be covered during Free Wills Month, speaking with a participating attorney about your options for ensuring your future well-being can provide valuable insight.

Mirror Wills for Couples

During Free Wills Month, mirror wills may be the best option for couples who want to create or amend their wills. Mirror wills are identical wills made by two individuals, typically spouses or partners, that mirror each other’s estate distribution preferences.

Some solicitors may offer complimentary mirror wills during the campaign, while others may charge a reduced fee. It is crucial to confirm with your chosen attorney the price and availability of this service.

Online Will Writing Services and Free Wills Month

While Free Wills Month primarily entails face-to-face meetings with participating solicitors, some individuals may find online will writing services more convenient.

Although they may not be part of the official Free Wills Month campaign, various online platforms offer will-writing services, and they frequently provide cost-effective options for those seeking a simple will.

Nonetheless, it is essential to research and compares such services to ensure they meet your estate planning needs and UK legal requirements.

Selected Locations and Free Wills Month

Free Wills Month occurs in select locations across England and Wales, offering eligible individuals access to participating solicitors.

To locate a local attorney or law firm participating in the campaign, visit the Free Wills Month website for a list of the solicitor’s firms and their contact information. Remember that appointments are frequently limited, so reserving your spot in the campaign early is advised.

The Importance of Leaving a Gift to Charity

Including leaving a gift or bequest in your will that effectively supports the causes, you care about and leaves a lasting impact.

The legacies in a will can range from a fixed sum of money to a percentage of the estate or specific assets, such as real estate or investments.

By leaving a legacy to the charities of your choice during Free Wills Month, you can help fund essential services and make a significant difference in the lives of innumerable people now and in the future.

How Does Free Wills Month Work?

Complimentary Wills Month allows eligible individuals to have free simple wills, which will draft or update for free by a participating solicitor.

The campaign occurs twice yearly, in March and October, and is available in designated areas of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. By participating in Free Wills Month, you can receive professional service from a local attorney at no cost or obligation.

To participate, you must be at least 55 and willing to leave a legacy to one or more designated charities. The value of the gift is entirely up to you, and you are not required to specify a quantity.

However, by leaving a legacy to charity, you can make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and support the vital services many charities provide.

How to Get a Free Simple Will?

Obtaining a free simple will during Free Wills Month is a straightforward, multi-step procedure. You must first visit the Free Wills Month website and input your zip code to locate participating attorneys in your area.

Then, you can contact the attorneys and schedule an appointment to discuss your needs and have your will drafted or revised.

During the consultation, the attorney will guide you through the will-writing process, considering your desires and circumstances into account.

In addition, they will explain the implications of inheritance tax and any specific bequests to loved ones or charities.

After drafting the will, the attorney will send you a copy for your approval and arrange for it to be signed and witnessed.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Choosing the right solicitor to compose your will is a crucial choice that can substantially affect the outcome.

Consider a lawyer’s experience, reputation, and location when choosing one. Selecting a local attorney who is conversant with the local laws and regulations and can provide individualised service is advisable.

In addition, you should confirm that the chosen solicitor is a member of a reputable law firm with a history of providing high-quality will-writing services.

You can also inquire for referrals from friends, family, or coworkers who have recently utilised the services of a lawyer. Choosing a lawyer with whom you feel secure working and in whom you can place your sensitive information is crucial.

Free Will Writing: Leaving a Lasting Legacy

During Free Wills Month, you can leave a lasting legacy by supporting your favourite charities through bequests.

By including a charity in your will, you can ensure that their vital work continues for generations to come and make a substantial difference in the lives of vulnerable people.

Many charities rely on legacies to fund their operations, and the government can subsidise your contribution through tax deductions.

Leaving a bequest in your will can also give you peace of mind that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones and favourite charities will be cared for.

To learn more about leaving a gift to charity, you can consult the websites of numerous charities or contact them directly.

They can provide comprehensive information about their work, the impact of your donation, and how to include them in your will.

With any luck, the effects of Free Wills Month and leaving a gift to a chosen charity will continue to benefit many individuals.

Getting a Free Simple Will: What You Need to Know

During Free Wills Month, eligible individuals can receive a free will drafting or update from a participating solicitor. This means you can use a professional service at no cost or obligation.

A simple will is appropriate for those with uncomplicated affairs who wish to ensure that their assets are distributed according to their preferences.

To qualify for a free simple will, you must be at least 55 and willing to give a gift to one or more charities. The value of this present is wholly at your discretion. To locate a local attorney participating in the campaign, visit the Free Wills Month website or contact Age UK.

You and the chosen attorney will discuss your needs and preferences during the consultation. They will guide you through the will-writing process and explain any applicable legal and tax implications.

You will have the opportunity to examine and approve the will before its being signed and witnessed.

Choosing a Local Solicitor for Free Will Writing

When drafting a free will, selecting a local attorney can significantly improve service quality and peace of mind. A local attorney is familiar with the local laws and regulations and can provide customised advice and direction based on your specific circumstances.

To locate a local attorney participating in Free Wills Month, visit the website or contact Age UK. Alternatively, you can seek referrals from friends, family, or coworkers who have previously utilised the services of a lawyer.

Selecting a solicitor employed by a reputable law firm with a history of providing high-quality will-writing services is also advisable. Check the attorney’s website or social media profiles to learn more about their experience and credentials.

Choosing a local attorney with whom you feel secure working and in whom you can place your sensitive information is crucial.

Free Will Writing: Making a Huge Difference

Free will writing during Free Wills Month is an excellent opportunity to significantly impact vulnerable individuals’ lives and support the vital services provided by countless charities.

By leaving a legacy to a particular charity, you can ensure their work will continue for generations and have a lasting impact.

Numerous nonprofit organisations rely on legacies to finance their operations and provide their services. You can support the causes of many charities you care about and make a positive difference by leaving a legacy.

In addition, the government can give financial support to bequests through tax exemptions, allowing your contribution to go further.

To leave a gift to a charity, you must include it in your will and specify how you would like it to be used. You can contact the designated charity for additional information about their work and how to include further information about them in your will.

They hope they can provide complete details and direction on how to maximise the impact of your donation and ensure it has the intended effect.

Updating Your Will for Free: What You Need to Know

Free Wills Month also provides an opportunity for those with a will but need to amend it. A revised will account for changes in your circumstances, such as the birth of a child, marriage or divorce, or modifications to your assets or beneficiaries.

To amend your will for free, you must schedule an appointment with a local attorney participating in the campaign.

During the consultation, you can discuss the full details of the essential will and the desired modifications and receive advice regarding legal or tax implications. Once the revised will has been drafted.

Meet the author

Jane Parkinson

Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month is a campaign that occurs twice yearly in England and Wales, in March and October. During these months, participating solicitors offer a limited number of no-cost appointments to write or amend simple wills for individuals aged 55 and older. The initiative is supported financially by a group of charities, who hope that by providing the simple service wills are free, more individuals will leave bequests to their preferred charities.

Who can participate in Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month is open to those 55 and older interested in creating or revising a simple will. Participating solicitors provide this service at no cost and on a first-come, first-served basis. To utilise this free service, contact a local attorney or writing service during the campaign month to schedule an appointment with a chosen attorney.

What is an essential will?

A simple will is a document that details the distribution of an individual’s estate after death. It contains information regarding who will inherit their property, money, and possessions. A simple will is appropriate for individuals with uncomplicated circumstances, such as those who are married or in a civil partnership, have children, and do not have complex financial arrangements. During Free Wills Month, participating solicitors offer limited free appointments to write or amend free simple wills for individuals aged 55 and older.

Can I use an online service to write my will for free?

A few online services provide free-will writing, but you should know the hazards. Wills are legal documents; if they are written or updated correctly, they may be valid. Online services may provide a different level of expertise and counsel than a lawyer, and crucial details may be ignored or overlooked. You should consult a lawyer or writing service to ensure your will is drafted correctly and reflects your desires. During Free Wills Month, participating solicitors offer limited free appointments to write or amend simple wills for individuals aged 55 and older.