My Wishes

All the information here is related to how you can make gifts and choices in your Will.

What happens if a gift in my Will fails?

by | | Knowledge Base, My Wishes |

Part of the process of writing a will is planning to ensure that if a gift fails it is clear what you want to happen instead. Not only will we help you identify your gifts, assets and beneficiaries clearly, but we’ll also give you the option of stating what should happen to any gifts which may fail. For example, where someone has died, you could choose for the gift to go to or their children instead, or someone else you specify, or have it returned to the residue of your estate. It’s entirely u

What can I say about my funeral?

by | | Help: Funeral, Knowledge Base, My Wishes |

As part of your will you can suggest what you would like to happen at your funeral. These suggestions are expressed in a letter of wishes attached to your will. Your funeral wishes are not legally binding. They do not force your executors to do as you wish but they do at least allow you to express your preferences and these should be respected by your executors. The sort of things you may wish to consider including are: * Which religion, if any, you would like your funeral to be conducted u

Can the executor of my will also be a beneficiary?

by | | Knowledge Base, My Wishes |

Yes they can. In fact many people choose close friends or relatives to be their executors, so it is only natural that they will also be beneficiaries too. Your executors can receive any amount in your will, just like any other person. So, that could be a specific gift, property, a substantial share or even the whole lot – there are no restrictions on what you can leave them. Important The only rule you need to concern yourself with is that a beneficiary can’t be one of your witnesses. To read

Why might a gift in my will fail?

by | | Help: Cash, Help: Chattels, Help: Estate, Knowledge Base, My Wishes |

If circumstances have changed or the will is worded poorly then gifts may not come into effect in the way you want. It’s vital your will is written clearly and correctly. There are two main reasons a gift might fail: Circumstances have changed Examples of changes in circumstances that can cause a gift to fail include: * The Testator no longer owns the item or property matching the description in the will. * The Beneficiary dies before the person who made the will. * A charity mentioned

What happens if the appointment of an executor or guardian fails?

by | | Help: Executors, Help: Guardians, Knowledge Base, My Wishes |

You might have already approached the people you’re going to appoint as guardians and executors in your will for their permission to do so, but let’s face it, a lot can change between now and when your will’s going to be needed. This could include these key people changing their mind, not being around anymore or not being physically able to carry out their responsibilities. How you can minimise the risk of this happening We’d always recommend you appoint substitutes for the key appointments in