Jasmine Birtles
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October is Free Wills Month: Get Yours Amended or Written For Free
Vicky Parry
28th Sep 2025
Planning your inheritance is vital if you want to make sure the people you want to receive benefits from your estate get them without difficulty. Free Wills Month brings together a group of well-respected charities to offer members of the public aged 55 and over the opportunity to have their simple wills written or updated free of charge by using participating solicitors in locations across England, Northern Ireland and Wales.
We all need to be aware of what happens to all of our assets when the inevitable happens. Whilst this can often feel something we can’t afford to do and we even question whether our “estate” is worth covering.It is also worth having a will.
What is a Will?
Your will is how you divide up your estate (which is everything you own that has economic value, from your money to your house to your car and other possessions) in the way that you want, rather than the way the court decides. For example, if your arch-enemy also happens to be your twin sister then you might want to leave her nothing. However, the courts may award her everything you owned if you didn’t leave a will telling them not to, simply because she was a close relative.
An up-to-date will written by a solicitor ensures your wishes are respected. It also avoids difficult decisions and legal complications for your loved ones. Free Wills Month allows you to provide for family and friends and leave a gift to your chosen charities too.
A gift in your will costs you nothing now but can make a difference for years to come.
What the Experts Say
Jim Emsley, founder of ELM Legal Services, believes Free Wills Month is something everyone should take advantage of if they can and don’t already have a will.
“Too many people put off making a will, thinking it’s something to worry about later in life. But the reality is, having a clear, legally binding will is the only way to ensure your estate is distributed exactly as you wish. Without one, your loved ones could face months of stress and confusion, and the state decides who inherits your assets.Free Wills Month is a brilliant opportunity for anyone over 55 to get this vital task done without worrying about the cost. It’s a simple step that provides peace of mind, knowing your wishes are protected and your family isn’t left with uncertainty. Even if your estate isn’t huge, a will ensures small but important personal items, sentimental keepsakes, and financial assets go to the people or causes you care about.It’s also the perfect time to think about planning beyond just family. Many people don’t realise they can include friends, charities, or even pets in their will, helping to create a lasting legacy that reflects their values.At ELM Legal Services, we see every day the difference a well-drafted will makes. Free Wills Month removes the financial barrier, making it easier than ever for people to take control of their future. I encourage everyone to take part; it’s a small step now that brings enormous reassurance later.”
A reminder that Magpies can get 20% off Digital Vault, Will and Power of Attorney Services with ELM. Click here to arrange a free 15-minute phone call and quote ELMMAGPIE20.
FAQs
Who can get a free will?
Free Wills Month is specifically for people aged over 55. However, some charities may extend this offer to people related to the charity itself. For example, in previous years, the TV and Film Charity offered free wills to people of any age working in the industry.
Is it for individuals or couples?
Free Wills Month is for individuals and couples. In a couple, as long as one is over the age of 55 both can get ‘mirror’ wills. This is where the wills are the same, other than the immediate details of the names of the individual and their partner.
Is it really free?
It is not means-tested so that means it is not based on your income. You can get a basic will drawn up for free, or a small amendment to your current will.
More complicated wills may require a fee. For example, if you own a business and need to stipulate who inherits the business. This will be made clear at application stage and you can choose whether to proceed.
Do I have to leave a gift to the charity in my will?
You do not have to leave a gift to the charity in your free will. However, it is encouraged and can also provide incentives for reducing Inheritance Tax. If you leave 10% or more as charitable gifts in your will, your beneficiaries will pay reduced tax from 40% to 36%.
How to get my free will
To take part in Free Wills Month, please visit the web page and follow the instructions. You will then get access to the details of your local participating law firms and be able to complete the process in a few easy steps.
To read MoneyMagpie’s full guide in estate planning click here.
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