Writing your will during the coronavirus pandemic
It is sadly known that coronavirus does not discriminate with its victims. It has unfortunately taken people who are young and healthy, as well as many of the elderly and people who have underlying health conditions. This has meant that more of us are wanting to write up a will, or make updates to an existing will. This may seem difficult if your solicitors Chester are not doing face to face meetings, so how should you make sure this is sorted?
How can I write my will during the coronavirus pandemic?
The pandemic has reminded us that we do not know what our future holds – which is why having a will which is valid makes a lot of sense. This is especially so for the complex family structures many of us have today.
Most people understand that a will can be used to make sure that the people you want can deal with your estate. It also makes sure your financial assets are given out to those most important to you following your death, and it can be used to reduce the amount of inheritance tax on your estate. If you have children under the age of 18, you can also organise who will be their guardian.
Now, more than ever, it is important that people have these things sorted. People should be able to get their affairs in order despite lockdown measures. A solicitor should still be able to help you write up your will through the following ways:
- Telephone and video call appointments where they can advise and listen to wishes.
- Preparation of draft wills which can be sent out via mail.
- Further appointments over the phone or video call to go through the will and make amendments.
- Preparing the final will which will be sent out to you for execution.
- Advice on how to have the will executed in the best manner like following social distancing rules.
- Checking everything has been done properly and correctly.
- Storing the wills in their system so they are readily available.
Is my will valid?
For your will to be valid, it will have to be witnessed, signed and dated by two independent adults. The witnesses will have to be people who are not benefiting from your will in any way at all, and you will also need to appointment ‘executors’ who will distribute your estate.
You should always use a solicitor to write your will, as these are regulated and fully insured. A homemade will most often requiΩres a long process to rectify once you have passed away.
