A Will is one of the most important documents that a person will ever sign. It can ensure that a family’s wishes are carried out after death, protect against financial abuse and allow tax breaks for the beneficiaries of an estate. But if it’s not made properly, the consequences for loved ones can be devastating. So, it’s vital that you choose an expert will writer to draw up this crucial document.
Sadly, there are a number of unregulated and fraudulent will-writing services operating in the UK. This has been highlighted recently by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) in a report, which highlighted some of the worst examples of dishonesty or incompetence in this industry. These included a company that targeted young mothers in shopping centres and told them their children would be taken into care if they didn’t make a Will, as well as hidden fees, disappearing companies and poor advice leading to costly inheritance taxes.
The good news is that there are regulated will-writers who specialise in this area of law, so it’s worth finding out whether your chosen will writer is a member of the Society of expert will writers (SWW). SWW members adhere to a form of self-regulation that requires a high level of expertise and client protection. This includes a code of practice and a minimum of PS2million professional indemnity insurance.
An experienced and reputable Will writer will talk you through your entire estate and make sure that everything is covered, including who you want to be executors, guardians for any children and how you wish to divide up your assets and possessions between the different people in your life. They’ll also be able to provide expert legal advice on matters like the new inheritance tax rules and how to minimise tax liabilities for your beneficiaries.
Those who choose unregulated and unscrupulous Will writers often find themselves being ripped off, or worse still, their family members may suffer financially after their deaths. This is because these unregulated providers don’t have the specialist training and qualifications that solicitors do, so their advice is likely to be less comprehensive.
Many ill-informed consumers can be lured in by false promises of low prices or ‘quick fixes’. This is why it’s so important to choose a regulated will-writer, such as a solicitor. Not only will you have peace of mind that you’ve taken all the right steps to ensure your family’s future, but your advisor will be able to answer any questions you may have about the process and offer support throughout.
Choosing an expert will writer is the only way to ensure that your estate is protected, and that your loved ones are left with the quality of life and possessions you’ve worked hard for. So, don’t take the chance of being ripped off by an unregulated Will writing service – contact us today to find out more about our expert will-writing service. Our friendly team of experts are always on hand to help.