We have heard it all.
Whether it’s a married couple with young children, a business person with a small business that they have built up or a more mature person in their later years with grown up children and grandchildren, Wills seem to be last on their list of priorities.
Here is a list of the most common reasons we hear day in, day out as to why members of the public have not yet made their Wills.
Even though these people are considered intelligent, well informed and have children and families of their own and in most cases own a house, the trio of inertia, apathy and a lack of understanding result in doing nothing. The consequences of not having a Will for your loved ones can be devastating at a time of loss and grief.
We have not placed these in any particular order, just a list of reasons (excuses!) that our team hear on a regular basis.
I’m too young (We hear this most from those in their thirties with children)
I’m too old (We heard this most recently from a 72 year old)
I don’t own anything so I’ve got nothing to leave (But what about Guardians for your children?)
It all goes to my wife/husband/partner doesn’t it so I don’t need a Will (Really is that what you think???)
My children will get everything so I don’t need to bother (Step children?)
The Government sorts it out for me (Yeah right)
I’ll do it when my children are grown up (What? You are kidding me????? Guardianship!!!)
I’ll do it tomorrow/next week/next year… (Mañana)
It could be argued that by not putting a valid Will in place is one of the most selfish acts of an individual. Remember that a Will is never for you, it’s for those you love and care about and most importantly, left behind.
Would any of us really want our memory tarnished by the infighting, uncertainty and sheer selfishness of not thinking about those we care about after we have gone? And we are all going to go, that is guaranteed.
The list of trigger points in most people’s lives to make their Wills include.
Marriage
Divorce
Birth of a child or grandchild
Starting a new business
Inheriting money from a relative
Buying, selling or moving house
Death of a relative or a close friend
We know Wills are not the most uplifting subject to discuss but they are critically important for all of us. Even if you don’t use Portcullis to write this document for you, make sure you use a qualified and insured individual or firm to carry this out for you.
Where there’s a will there’s a way is often quoted and where there is no will, there can be devastating consequences for those left behind. Do the right thing and make your Will a priority today.
Please contact us on 01752 401401 to make an appointment with one of our friendly team or complete the enquiry form on the right hand side of this page and we will be in touch.