Making a will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your family and ensure your wishes are carried out after your death. Yet many people in the UK delay writing one, often because they believe it will be expensive or complicated. With online services and low-cost providers advertising wills from as little as £20, it raises an important question: is a cheap will actually worth it?
What Is a Cheap Will?
A cheap will typically refers to a will that costs significantly less than one drafted by a solicitor. In the UK, prices can vary considerably:
● Online will services: £20–£100
● Will-writing companies: £75–£250
● Solicitor-drafted wills: £150–£500+
● Complex estate planning: £500 and above
For many people with straightforward circumstances, a low-cost will can seem like an attractive option. After all, paying £30 today may feel preferable to spending several hundred pounds. However, cost should never be the only factor when making such an important legal document.
What is a legally Valid Will in England and Wales?
To be legally valid in England and Wales, a will must:
● Be made voluntarily.
● Be created by someone aged 18 or over.
● Be made by a person of sound mind.
● Be signed in the presence of two witnesses.
● Be signed by the witnesses in your presence.
If these requirements are not met, even the most expensive will could be challenged and would also be invalid.
The Risks of Choosing the Cheapest Option
While there are reputable budget providers, the cheapest option is not always the best value. Common issues include:
Generic Templates
Many inexpensive wills rely on standard templates that may not account for your personal circumstances. A template cannot ask follow-up questions in the same way a legal professional can.
Mistakes and Ambiguity
Poor wording can lead to confusion among beneficiaries. In some cases, unclear instructions have resulted in disputes that cost families thousands of pounds in legal fees.
Lack of Advice
A solicitor or experienced professional can identify issues you may not have considered, including:
● Inheritance tax implications.
● Trust arrangements.
● Guardianship provisions for children.
● Business ownership.
● Blended families and previous marriages.
Without this advice, a cheap will could end up costing your estate far more in the future.
Consider the Cost of Not Having a Will
It’s also worth considering the alternative: having no will at all.
If you die intestate (without a valid will) in the UK, your estate will be distributed according to intestacy rules. This means your assets may not go to the people you intended.
For example:
● Unmarried partners have limited rights.
● Stepchildren are not automatically entitled to inherit.
● Friends and charities will not receive anything unless specifically named.
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Cheap Will
Before choosing a low-cost provider, ask yourself:
- Is the company regulated or professionally accredited?
2. Are updates included if my circumstances change?
3. Is there support available if I have questions?
4. Will my will be reviewed by a qualified professional?
5. Are there any hidden fees for storage or amendments?
A cheap will that is clear, legally compliant, and tailored to your needs can represent excellent value. A poorly drafted one, however, can create unnecessary complications for those you leave behind.
The Verdict: Is a Cheap Will Worth It?
The answer depends on your circumstances.
If your affairs are simple, a reputable low-cost will service may be an affordable and practical solution. However, if you own property, have children, run a business, or have a complex family situation, investing in professional advice is often money well spent.
Ultimately, the purpose of a will is to provide certainty and peace of mind. Saving a few pounds today should never come at the expense of protecting your loved ones tomorrow. A cheap will can be worth it—but only if it does the job properly. If you require any guidance on your options, get in touch with our Private Client team for a free initial consultation, and we can help you to plan the right way forward for your will, and maybe also consider a Power of Attorney.
Article by Leanne Parkinson
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