Free Wills Month – why you should make a will even if you don’t have much money

March is Free Wills Month. Now in its 20th year, the campaign sees charities teaming up with solicitors so that people can write or update their wills for free.

To mark this year’s event, we’re highlighting the importance of making a will regardless of how much your possessions are worth.

Why do I need to make a will if I don’t have much money or many possessions?

If you don’t make a will:

You don’t get to say what happens to your things

If you die before making a will, your belongings will be allocated according to strict rules. Your wishes won’t be taken into consideration.

Your partner might be left with nothing

If you’re not married or in a civil partnership, your other half won’t inherit your belongings unless you leave a will saying this is what should happen.

You won’t get to say what will happen to your kids

If you’re a parent, you won’t get to make arrangements for your children if you don’t leave a will.

How do I make a free will?

The Free Wills Month campaign is open to anyone aged 55 or over. Just call a local solicitor who is taking part before 5pm on Monday, 31 March.

Appointments can get snapped up quickly, so don’t delay.

The charities covering the cost are encouraging participants to leave them a gift in their will but there’s no obligation to do so.