Frequently Asked Questions
Wills & Estate Planning with LifeCare Planning Solutions
At LifeCare Planning Solutions, we help you plan for the future with expert will-writing and estate planning services. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making a will.
Why Do I Need a Will?
A will is a legal document that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. Without one, the law will decide how your estate is handled, which may not reflect your intentions.
Anyone with assets, dependents, or specific wishes for their estate should have a will. It provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
If you pass away without a will, your estate is distributed according to UK intestacy laws. This can lead to delays, additional costs, and outcomes that may not align with your wishes.
Creating a Will with LifeCare Planning Solutions
We make the process simple and stress-free. Our team will guide you through each step—whether online, over the phone, or in person. We ensure your will is legally valid and tailored to your needs.
While it is possible to write a will yourself, using a professional service like ours ensures your will is legally sound and structured to prevent future disputes.
You will need details about:
- Your assets (property, savings, investments, etc.)
- Your chosen beneficiaries (who will inherit your assets)
- Your executors (the people responsible for carrying out your will)
- Guardians (if you have minor children)
- Any specific funeral wishes
You can choose a trusted friend, family member, or professional executor. Our team can also act as your executor if you prefer professional management of your estate.
Updating & Changing Your Will
We recommend reviewing your will every few years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, having children, or acquiring new assets.
Yes, you can update your will by making an official amendment (called a codicil) or by writing a new will. Our team can guide you through the best option.
A will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two independent adults who are not beneficiaries or spouses of beneficiaries.
Costs & Legal Considerations
Our pricing is transparent and affordable, with options to suit your needs. Contact us for a tailored quote based on your circumstances.
Yes, we offer a convenient online will-writing service that ensures your will is legally valid and professionally drafted.
We offer secure will storage to ensure your document is protected and easily accessible when needed. You can also store it safely at home, but it should be clearly marked and known to your executors.
Executors, Beneficiaries & Guardians
An executor ensures your will is carried out correctly, from paying debts and taxes to distributing your assets.
Yes, we offer professional executor services to ensure your estate is handled efficiently and in accordance with your wishes.
Absolutely! You can leave a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or particular assets to a charity of your choice.
Yes, you can appoint legal guardians to ensure your children are cared for by the people you trust.
Inheritance & Tax Considerations
Inheritance Tax applies if your estate exceeds the tax-free threshold (£325,000 in the UK). However, there are exemptions and reliefs available. We can advise you on ways to reduce your tax liability.
There are several strategies, including:
- Gifting assets during your lifetime
- Leaving money to charity
- Setting up trusts
- Making use of allowances and reliefs
- Will my debts be passed on to my family?
- No, your debts will be paid from your estate before assets are distributed to beneficiaries.
Special Circumstances
Yes, but certain individuals (such as dependents) may be able to challenge your will if they believe they have not been adequately provided for. Our experts can help structure your will to reduce the risk of disputes.
A will can be contested under certain circumstances, such as claims of undue influence, lack of mental capacity, or improper execution. Our team ensures your will is legally sound to reduce these risks.
If you relocate, your UK will may not be valid in your new country. We can advise on whether you need an international will or a separate will for each jurisdiction.
Yes, we specialise in creating wills for blended families, ensuring fairness and clarity in asset distribution.
Final Steps
Your executors should know where your will is stored. While you are not required to share its contents, open communication can help avoid surprises.
A Letter of Wishes is a non-binding document that provides additional guidance for your executors. It can cover personal belongings, funeral preferences, or explanations for certain decisions.
Yes, but because wills are often read after the funeral, we recommend sharing your funeral preferences separately with your loved ones or executors.
Yes, you can revoke your will by destroying it or writing a new will that explicitly cancels previous versions.
Get Started Today
Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected.
Contact us today to book a free consultation and start planning your future with LifeCare Planning Solutions.