The process of creating a will is a fundamental step in estate planning, ensuring one's wishes for asset distribution, guardianship, and other personal matters are legally recognised. In the UK, a growing number of digital services offer streamlined, often low-cost, methods to draft this crucial document. This article examines the services provided by Farewill, a prominent UK-based will-writing service, and explores other available online resources, focusing on the practicalities, costs, and features that are relevant to consumers seeking to manage their legacy effectively.
Farewill positions itself as a modern alternative to traditional solicitor-led will writing, emphasising speed, convenience, and value. The service is presented as the UK's favourite will writing service, having been voted as such and winning the National Will Writing Firm of the Year award at the British Wills and Probate Awards for four consecutive years since 2019. The company highlights that its creation was driven by a desire to change a process that has historically been slow, expensive, and inconvenient. Since its launch, it has assisted tens of thousands of people across the UK in making a will.
The core offering from Farewill is divided into two primary methods: online will writing and telephone will writing. For those who prefer a digital, self-guided process, the online service provides a step-by-step tool. This tool is designed to be checked by a will specialist, making it suitable for simple wills and estates. The stated cost for an online will is £100 for an individual, with a couple's will priced at £160, representing a saving of £40 compared to two individual wills. The service includes unlimited updates for a fee of £10 per year, and the option to have a professionally printed will for an additional £6. Users can start the process for free, with the ability to begin and return to their will at any time.
For individuals who prefer verbal discussion and direct support, Farewill offers a telephone will writing service. A specialist guides the user through the process over the phone, which is described as great for talking things through and getting support where it is needed. This service is priced at £240 for an individual and £380 for a couple (a saving of £100). It includes the ability to add more complex elements such as trusts or business assets for an additional £200, and also offers the option of a professionally printed will for £6. A free callback can be booked to discuss this service.
A key feature of Farewill's service, as highlighted in the provided materials, is its emphasis on simplicity and accessibility. The company states that it cuts out legal jargon to make the process simpler, regardless of the chosen method. Furthermore, it assures users that they can change their minds later, offering confidence in the online will-writing process. This flexibility is an important consideration for many, as life circumstances and wishes can evolve.
While the primary focus of the provided data is on Farewill, the search query also references other online resources for will creation. It is important to note that the context documents provided do not contain specific details about other UK-based free will services. However, they do mention general platforms that offer templates and tools for document creation, which can be relevant for consumers exploring their options.
For instance, there are online platforms that provide a range of last will and testament templates. These templates are often described as editable, printable, downloadable, and simple to use. The goal of such platforms is typically to help users manage their documents efficiently, with a library of templates that is free and accessible to all. Users can often customise these templates in various formats, such as Microsoft Office or Google Docs, using an integrated editor to add text, highlight, draw shapes, or insert images. Once finalised, documents can be printed directly from the device or exported as a PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or image file. Some platforms also offer integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, and may provide an eSign tool for electronic signatures, which are generally accepted in place of traditional wet signatures, though users are advised to verify this with local authorities.
When using any template or online service, it is crucial to understand the legal requirements for a will to be valid in the UK. While the provided data does not specify UK legal requirements, it does outline general steps and considerations that are broadly applicable. These include naming the testator (the person writing the will) with details like name, date, location, and family status; choosing an executor to manage the estate; listing beneficiaries and specifying asset distribution; appointing guardians for minor children and pets; and including any special instructions. Crucially, the will must meet legal requirements for signing and witnessing. Most jurisdictions require two witnesses to observe the testator's signature. The presence of a notary public may be required if a self-proving affidavit is added, which can simplify the probate process by eliminating the need for witness testimony in court.
For UK consumers, the choice between a specialised service like Farewill and a generic template platform depends on individual needs, the complexity of the estate, and the value placed on professional guidance. Services like Farewill offer a structured, guided experience with specialist checks, which can provide peace of mind for those with straightforward estates. The telephone option is particularly suited to those who want direct conversation and support. On the other hand, template-based platforms offer maximum flexibility and are often free of charge, but they place the onus of understanding legal nuances and ensuring compliance squarely on the user.
In summary, creating a will is an essential task, and the digital landscape in the UK provides several avenues to accomplish it. Farewill presents a structured, award-winning service with clear pricing for online and telephone will writing, emphasising simplicity and the ability to make changes. Other online platforms provide free templates that can be edited and downloaded in various formats, offering a cost-effective solution for those comfortable managing the process themselves. Regardless of the chosen method, understanding the fundamental steps and legal requirements for a valid will is paramount to ensuring one's wishes are honoured.