Update Your Affairs

Making a will is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your wishes are respected after your death. But writing a will is only part of the process. It is equally important to make sure that your executors know where your will is stored and that your wider affairs are kept up to date.

A will is of little practical use if nobody can find it. Whether your original will is held by a solicitor, a bank, a professional will-storage service or safely at home, make sure your executors know exactly where it is and how they can access it. It is sensible to give them clear, written information about where the original will is kept.



Your circumstances can also change considerably over time. Marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, changes in your finances, property ownership or relationships may all mean that your will needs reviewing. Even if nothing significant has changed, it is good practice to revisit your arrangements periodically to make sure they still reflect your wishes.

A simple review checklist

☐ Do your executors know they have been appointed?
☐ Do they know where the original will is stored?
☐ Does your will still reflect your wishes and circumstances?
☐ Have there been any changes to your family or relationships?
☐ Have you reviewed your property, savings, investments and pensions?
☐ Are your life insurance and other important policies up to date?
☐ Can your executors locate key financial and legal documents?
☐ Have you reviewed your arrangements for lasting powers of attorney?
☐ Have you told the appropriate people where important information can be found?

Taking a little time now to review these arrangements can save your loved ones considerable stress, confusion and expense at what will already be a difficult time. Most importantly, it gives you peace of mind that your affairs are organised and that the people responsible for carrying out your wishes will know where to start.