Page 64 • The HERALD • 16th July 2026 v SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SPECIALISTS v ASK A PROFESSIONAL THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE WRITING YOUR WILL Advice from Heritage Will Writing For many people, writing a Will can feel like a daunting task and is o en something that’s easy to put o . However, it is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out a er your death. is becomes even more important once you get married, have children, or begin to build up valuable assets. Many people delay making a Will simply because they are unsure where to start or what is involved. To help you begin the process, we have outlined some of the key things you should consider before writing your Will. While this article covers the basics, you can nd more detailed information by visiting: www. heritagewillwriting.co.uk Writing Your Will – The Basics Appointing Executors Your Executors are the people responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Will and administering your estate. You can appoint up to four Executors, although appointing at least two is generally recommended. Executors can also be bene ciaries of your Will. Appointing Guardians If you have children under the age of 18, you should appoint Guardians to care for them if both parents die before they reach adulthood. Your chosen Guardians can also act as Executors if you wish. Providing for Your Pets If you have pets, you may wish to include instructions about who should care for them a er your death. Appointing Trustees If your Will creates any trusts, you will need to appoint Trustees. eir role is to manage and protect any assets held in trust in accordance with your wishes. Funeral Wishes Although funeral wishes are not legally binding, including your preferences in your Will can provide valuable guidance to your family. You may wish to specify whether you would prefer burial or cremation, as well as any particular requests regarding your funeral service or arrangements. Specific Gifts You do not need to list every asset you own, but you should consider any speci c gi s you would like to leave. ese could include: • Personal possessions, such as jewellery, family heirlooms or sentimental items. • Cash gi s to family, friends or charitable organisations. Your Residuary Estate e residue of your estate is everything that remains a er any speci c gi s have been distributed and all debts, taxes and administration expenses have been paid. You do not need to list every remaining asset individually. Instead, you simply decide who should receive the residue of your estate and the proportion each bene ciary should inherit. Planning for the Unexpected It is important to consider what should happen if circumstances change. For example, what if one of your bene ciaries dies before you? Appointing substitute (or reserve) bene ciaries can help ensure your estate passes to the people you intend. Seek Professional Advice If you are unsure about any aspect of writing your Will, it’s always advisable to seek professional advice to ensure your wishes are clearly expressed and your Will is legally valid. We are Here to Help If you would like help or advice with writing your Will, our friendly team is here to assist you. Please contact us on: 023 8087 9243 or info@heritagewillwriting.co.uk
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTIyNzI=