Keeping your Will up to date

People's lives can change very quickly so it is advised to review things regularly and making a will afresh if required. Wills should be formally reviewed at least every 5 years and certainly on the happening of any of the following events:-

• Making a will or the decision to change an existing will is often triggered by the death of a spouse or close family member.
• Divorce or separation is another major reason people think about making a will, to ensure their new wishes are taken care of.
• A marriage or remarriage should be an obvious reason for making a will as would the birth of any children. It is essential when making a will to carefully consider the interests of the children when making provisions for them.
• Moving house can also be a time for people to review their will or consider making a will for the first time and surprisingly starting a new business also triggers people to consider making a will.
• A receipt of a bonus or cash windfall or inheritance from a relative is certain to make anyone who had been putting off making a will, think again now that they have obvious assets to leave to their dependants.
• Serious illness or redundancy are often life-changing events which trigger making a will as is retirement.

This is not a comprehensive list of why people consider making a will but any change of circumstances seems likely to cause most of us to review our wills or consider making a will for the first time.