Only 35 percent of UK adults have made a will – WHY?

Why Have So Few UK Adults Made a Will?

It was a pleasure to welcome Gareth Jones from Mental Health Wanderer to RJM Solicitors recently to prepare his will. Conversations like this highlight an important issue. Despite the importance of estate planning, only around 35 percent of UK adults have made a will.

Why It Was Great to Help Gareth Jones Make His Will

We recently had the pleasure of assisting Gareth Jones from Mental Health Wanderer in preparing his will. Gareth has done significant work raising awareness around mental health and it was great to help him put clear plans in place for the future.

Making a will is one of the most important steps anyone can take to protect their family. Gareth recognised the importance of planning ahead and ensuring his wishes are clearly recorded.

Experiences like this reinforce why we continue to encourage people across South Wales to think about making a will.

How Many People in the UK Have Made a Will?

Research from IRN Legal Reports shows that only 35 percent of UK adults have made a will. The numbers are even lower among younger adults.

Just 16 percent of people aged between 35 and 44 have a will. Among those aged 25 to 34 the figure drops to around 10 percent.

The likelihood of having a will increases with age. Around 61 percent of people aged 65 and over have made one. However the low number of younger adults with wills remains a concern, particularly for those raising young families.

Ryan Owen, Director and Head of Wills and Probate at RJM Solicitors, explains that this trend is something the legal profession sees regularly.

“These numbers are always striking. One of the most worrying groups is the age range where many people are raising young families. For parents with young children having a will is crucial yet the message still is not reaching enough people.” - Ryan Owen, RJM Solicitors

Why Are So Many People Not Making a Will?

Many people delay making a will simply because life is busy. Research shows that around 45 percent of people without a will say they just have not got around to it.

Others believe they are too young or feel they do not have enough assets to justify making a will.

In reality a will is not just about property or savings. It is about making sure the people you care about are protected and that your wishes are followed.

Without a will the law decides how your estate is distributed under the rules of intestacy. This may not reflect what you would have wanted.

Why You Should Still Have a Will Even If You Have No Assets

A common misconception is that a will is only necessary if you own property or significant assets. However this is not the case.

If you have children under the age of 18 a will is extremely important because it allows you to nominate a guardian. A guardian is the person you choose to care for your children if both parents pass away before the children reach adulthood.

Without a will the courts may need to decide who should take on that responsibility. This can create uncertainty and stress for families during an already difficult time.

By making a will you can clearly nominate the person you trust to raise your children and make important decisions about their care.

Why This Is a Concern for Families

Parents with young children are one of the groups least likely to have a will. This can lead to significant problems if something unexpected happens.

A will allows parents to appoint guardians and ensure their children are financially protected. It also provides clear instructions about how assets should be managed for their benefit.

Without a will decisions about inheritance and guardianship can become complicated and may ultimately be decided by the courts.

Five Key Reasons Why Making a Will Is Important

Making a will provides clarity and protection for your loved ones:

1. You decide who inherits your money property and possessions.

2. You can appoint guardians for children under 18.

3. You reduce the risk of disputes between family members.

4. You help minimise delays and legal costs when your estate is administered.

5. You gain peace of mind knowing your wishes are legally recorded.

Is Making a Will Complicated?

Many people assume making a will will be complicated or time consuming. In most cases the process is straightforward when handled by a solicitor. A solicitor can ensure your will is legally valid and clearly drafted so that your wishes are properly followed.

Once completed, many clients say they feel a sense of relief knowing that their plans are in place and their family is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I too young to make a will?

No. Anyone over the age of 18 can make a will. If you have children own property or want to control who inherits from you it is sensible to have one.

What happens if I die without a will?

Your estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. This may exclude unmarried partners and does not allow you to nominate guardians for children.

Do I need a solicitor to make a will?

While it is possible to make a will yourself professional advice helps ensure the document is legally valid and reflects your intentions.

How often should a will be updated?

You should review your will after major life events such as marriage divorce having children or buying property.

Don't Delay, Make Your Will Today

Making a will is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your family and plan for the future. Although many people delay taking this step having a will in place provides clarity reassurance and peace of mind.

If you would like advice about making a will or reviewing an existing one contact RJM Solicitors in Merthyr Tydfil. Call 01685 37 37 21 or email info@rjmsolicitors.co.uk to speak with our Wills and Probate team.