How Much is The Cost of Making a Will?
How Much is The Cost of Making a Will?
Blog Article
Writing a will is one of the most important legal steps anyone can take to protect their estate and loved ones. Yet for many in the UK, the cost of making a will remains a source of confusion and delay. How much does it really cost to create a valid, professionally drafted will? Are DIY options trustworthy? What affects solicitor fees for wills?
At Axis Solicitors, we understand the value of having clear, practical legal guidance. In this guide, we break down the average cost of making a will in the UK, compare will writing options, and explore the factors that influence the final fee—so you can plan with confidence.
From basic wills to complex estate planning, the cost varies widely depending on your circumstances, legal needs, and how you choose to proceed. But getting it wrong can cost far more later down the line. That’s why it pays to understand what you’re paying for and why.
Whether you’re creating a will for the first time or updating an old one, this guide will help you understand the cost of making a will and ensure your wishes are respected.
Why You Need a Will in the First Place
Before diving into the cost of making a will, it’s important to understand why having one matters so much in the first place. A will is not just a legal document; it’s a plan for your legacy, your family’s stability, and the orderly management of everything you’ve worked for. To have a better idea you can also check the official government website GOV.UK
What Happens if You Die Without a Will?
If you pass away without a valid will — legally known as dying intestate — your estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy in the UK. These rules are strict and inflexible. They do not take into account your personal relationships, individual wishes, or modern family dynamics.
Without a will:
Your spouse or civil partner may not automatically inherit everything.
Unmarried partners receive nothing, regardless of how long you’ve been together.
Children may inherit earlier than intended or in unintended proportions.
Disputes among surviving family members can arise, leading to costly legal battles.
Control, Clarity, and Protection
Creating a will gives you control over:
Who inherits what: You can clearly set out who receives specific assets, money, or property.
Who manages your estate: You appoint executors you trust to carry out your wishes.
Who looks after your children: If you have minor children, a will allows you to name guardians.
Charitable donations: You can leave gifts to causes you care about, potentially reducing Inheritance Tax.
Business succession: If you own a business, you can ensure it passes to the right hands.
The Cost of Not Having a Will
While some may be put off by the cost of making a will, the financial and emotional toll of not having one is far greater. Families often face delays, court costs, and stress — not to mention the risk of unintended beneficiaries.
A properly drafted will is an investment in peace of mind. It protects your estate, minimises legal complications, and ensures your loved ones aren’t left guessing.
How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will in the UK?
The cost of making a will in the UK can range from completely free (in very basic DIY cases) to several thousand pounds for complex estate plans involving multiple assets, trusts, or international property. The key factors that influence cost include:
The complexity of your estate
Whether you use a solicitor or will writing service
Whether you need a single or mirror will
Additional legal requirements (e.g. trusts, inheritance tax planning)
Let’s look at the main options and what they typically cost.
1. DIY Wills (Free – £50)
You can write your own will using online templates or store-bought will kits. These typically cost £10 to £50. In some cases, charities offer free will-writing services during promotional campaigns such as Free Wills Month.
Pros:
Extremely cheap or free
Fast and accessible
Cons:
Risk of being legally invalid
No legal advice
Can’t handle complex estates
DIY wills are only suitable if your estate is very straightforward — for example, leaving everything to your spouse or children. Even then, mistakes in wording or witnessing can make them invalid.
2. Will Writing Services (Typically £60 – £200)
These are non-solicitor services offered online or by will-writing companies. Prices vary depending on complexity, but they are usually cheaper than solicitors.
What’s included:
Drafting based on an online questionnaire or consultation
A legally binding will
Optional extras like secure storage or review clauses
Limitations:
Not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
Limited liability if things go wrong
May not be suitable for complex or high-value estates
While some will writing services are reputable, many are not. There is no legal requirement for these providers to be qualified or insured, which poses a risk if your estate has complications.
3. Solicitor-Drafted Wills (Typically £200 – £1,200+)
When you work with a solicitor, you’re paying for regulated legal expertise. This is especially important if:
You own property
You have children from different relationships
You run a business
You need inheritance tax planning
You want to include trusts
Single Will: £200 – £600
Mirror Wills (for couples): £300 – £800
Complex Will (with trusts, tax planning): £600 – £1,200+
Specialist Estate Planning Wills: Can exceed £2,000
Solicitors offer legal advice, ensure compliance with UK law, and reduce the risk of disputes. Many firms, including Axis Solicitors, offer fixed-fee packages so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
4. Free Will Offers from Charities
Some charities offer free will-writing services through partner solicitors in exchange for a donation or a gift left to the charity in your will. These are often available during specific campaigns like:
Free Wills Month (March and October)
Will Aid (November)
While the cost of making a will is effectively waived, you’re encouraged to leave a charitable gift, and the scope of advice may be limited compared to a private solicitor engagement.