Why you should write a will — and how to do it for free

Most of us haven’t written a will. But it's one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your loved ones

Couple going over their will at home
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Writing a will can be one of the simplest ways to reduce your inheritance tax bill, making it a great weapon against the taxman. Yet, the majority of us have never bothered to write one.

If you die without a will, your estate is subject to the laws of intestacy. If you're married, this means jointly-held assets pass to your spouse, but the rest of your estate is divided up between your spouse and your children. Your spouse gets the first £250,000 plus half of the remainder, with the rest split between your children.

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Ruth Emery
Contributing editor

Ruth is an award-winning financial journalist with more than 15 years' experience of working on national newspapers, websites and specialist magazines.

She is passionate about helping people feel more confident about their finances. She was previously editor of Times Money Mentor, and prior to that was deputy Money editor at The Sunday Times. 

A multi-award winning journalist, Ruth started her career on a pensions magazine at the FT Group, and has also worked at Money Observer and Money Advice Service. 

Outside of work, she is a mum to two young children, while also serving as a magistrate and an NHS volunteer.

With contributions from