What to Include in Your Will: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Creating a Will can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Many people aren’t sure what to include or how to organise their estate. A Will isn’t just a list of assets — it’s a roadmap that ensures your loved ones are cared for, your wishes are respected, and potential disputes are avoided.
In this guide, we’ll break down step by step what to include in your Will so you can feel confident that it covers everything important.
Step 1: List Your Assets
Before you start writing, make a comprehensive list of everything you own. Consider:
Property: Houses, flats, land, or investment properties
Savings and investments: Bank accounts, ISAs, pensions, stocks, or bonds
Personal possessions: Jewelry, art, collectibles, or family heirlooms
Digital assets: Online accounts, cryptocurrencies, social media accounts
Other assets: Cars, valuable furniture, or business interests
Being thorough now helps ensure nothing is overlooked and reduces the chance of disputes later.
Step 2: Choose Your Beneficiaries
Beneficiaries are the people or organisations who will receive your assets. You can include:
Family members: Children, siblings, parents, or partners
Friends or extended family: Stepchildren, cousins, or close friends
Charities: Donations to causes you care about
Decide what each beneficiary will receive — whether a specific item, a sum of money, or a share of the estate.
Step 3: Appoint Executors
Executors are responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Will. They:
Apply for probate
Distribute your assets according to your instructions
Pay any debts or taxes
Choose trusted individuals, and it’s often wise to name at least two executors in case one is unable to act. You can also appoint a professional executor, like a solicitor, if you prefer.
Step 4: Nominate Guardians for Children
If you have children under 18, your Will is the only way to legally appoint guardians. Consider:
Who will care for your children if you pass away
Who shares your values and parenting style
Whether financial arrangements or trusts are needed for the children’s support
Discuss your choice with the person you intend to appoint, so they are prepared to take on the responsibility.
Step 5: Include Special Requests
A Will can cover more than just financial assets. You can include:
Funeral arrangements: Burial, cremation, or memorial preferences
Specific gifts: Personal items or sentimental heirlooms
Charitable donations: Support causes you care about after your passing
Special requests help ensure your final wishes are followed and reduce uncertainty for your loved ones.
Step 6: Consider Digital and Online Assets
Increasingly, people have valuable digital assets. Your Will can include:
Login details for email, social media, and cloud accounts
Digital currency or online investment accounts
Instructions for photos, documents, or intellectual property
Including these in your Will ensures they are managed according to your wishes.
Step 7: Sign and Witness Your Will
To be legally valid in the UK:
The Will must be in writing
You must sign it in the presence of two witnesses
Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries or spouses of beneficiaries
You must have mental capacity and understand the nature of the Will
Following these steps ensures your Will is enforceable and reduces the risk of disputes.
Step 8: Review and Update Regularly
Life changes — marriage, divorce, children, property purchases, inheritance, or financial changes can all affect your Will. Review it periodically to ensure it reflects your current circumstances. Small changes can be made via a codicil, while major updates may require a full rewrite.
Practical Example
James, a 35-year-old engineer, created his first Will after having his second child. He included:
Guardianship for his children
Executors from trusted family friends
Specific gifts for sentimental items
Instructions for digital accounts and online assets
Having a detailed Will provided peace of mind, knowing that his family would be cared for and his wishes followed, even in unexpected circumstances.
Conclusion & CTA (H4)
A well-structured Will provides clarity, protection, and peace of mind. By following these steps, you can ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are safeguarded.
Next Step: Download our Free Will Guide PDF for a full step-by-step template and guidance to create a legally valid Will that works for you and your family.