Could you get a free will this March and is it the best option for you

If you haven't sorted out your will yet, you're not alone. More than half of the British population (51%) haven't sorted out their finances for when they die, but the good news is it's easier than ever this March as it's Free Wills Month. And if you're someone who loves saving money, what better incentive is there to finally get it sorted? We take a step-by-step look at what you need to do and whether a free will is the best option for you.

It's easy to put off sorting out your will but not doing so could help you avoid your loved ones having to fork out inheritance tax and family disputes after you die. And it's not just about sorting out the financial side, a Will can name guardians to care for your children if you sadly pass away. If you haven't sorted out yours yet - then March is the month to do it - as it's free.

As part of Free Wills Month a solicitor will draft your will and you don't have to pay a penny - the only requirement is that you have to be 55 or over. You can even get a will for a couple, as long as one of you is this age or older.

And it’s totally free and easy to do from March 3, 2025. Of course, the charities who are signed up to the scheme hope you'll leave a gift to help them continue their great work. There are some great worthy causes to choose from including Alzheimer's Research, Mind and Dog's Trust to name just a few.

All you have to do is to go to the Free Wills Month homepage and enter your details. After you’ve done that you will receive an email confirming when the campaign has opened in your area with instructions on what you need to do next - it's that simple.

Not every city or town is taking part in the March campaign, but don't worry as if your area isn't on the list, you'll get an email letting you know when you can take part. The UK areas eligible for a free will this March are: Chichester/Worthing, Coventry, Crawley, Darlington, Eastbourne, Harrogate, Hastings, Kent, Liverpool, Middlesborough, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Northampton, Peterborough, Sheffield, Slough, Sunderland, Wirral and Wolverhampton.

It’s important to point out however that while a free will is OK for lots of people, it’s not suitable for everyone. The general rule of thumb is that if your wishes are simple and you are leaving everything to your immediate family, a free will should be just fine. However, more complex arrangements will probably benefit from professional legal advice from a solicitor.

Free Wills Month:

- Covers a single will for anyone aged 55+, or a 'mirror will' for couples where the wills are near-identical, as long as one is 55+ - You need to book your appointment by the end of October - It's organised on behalf of charities like Age UK , British Heart Foundation , Marie Curie and The Samaritans in the hope you'll leave a thank you gift of £300 to £500.