Understanding Mirror Wills: What's the Mirror Will Cost in the UK?

Thinking about wills can feel a bit heavy, right? Especially for couples. You want to make sure things are sorted, but where do you even start? Mirror wills are a popular choice for many couples in the UK, basically two wills that are pretty much the same. They're meant to make things simpler and often cheaper than writing two totally separate documents. But what does a mirror will cost, and is it the right move for you? Let's break it down.

Key Takeaways

• The typical mirror will cost in the UK for a pair of wills ranges from £200 to £400 when using a solicitor, though online services can be cheaper but offer less personal advice.

• Mirror wills are best suited for couples, married or not, who have very similar wishes for their estate and want a cost-effective way to plan.

• A mirror will cost usually includes a consultation, drafting, any necessary revisions, and the witnessing and signing of the documents.

• While mirror wills are convenient, the surviving partner can change their will after the first partner dies, which can be a significant risk if not addressed.

• For couples wanting more certainty, especially in blended families, considering trusts within mirror wills or opting for mutual wills might be a better, though potentially more expensive, option.

Understanding Mirror Will Costs In The UK

Right then, let's talk about the nitty-gritty of mirror wills and, more importantly, what they're likely to set you back here in the UK. It's not as scary as it sounds, honestly. Most couples find that getting two wills sorted that are pretty much identical is a sensible move, and thankfully, it's usually more budget-friendly than you might think.

Average Mirror Will Cost Breakdown

So, what's the damage? Generally speaking, you're looking at a price range of about £200 to £400 for a pair of mirror wills drafted by a professional. Now, you might see cheaper options advertised, especially online, and while they can be tempting, they're often best suited for really simple situations. If your affairs are a bit more complex, or you just want that extra peace of mind, sticking with the slightly higher end of the scale is usually a good bet.

Here's a rough idea of what you might expect:

Provider Type	Average Cost (for a pair)	Best For
Solicitor	£200 – £400	Complex estates, or if you want maximum reassurance and tailored advice.
Will Writer	£120 – £300	Good balance of personalised service and cost for most couples.
Online Service	£49.50 – £135	Very straightforward estates, where you know exactly what you need.

Factors Influencing Mirror Will Pricing

Why the difference in price, you ask? Well, a few things can nudge the cost up or down. The main one is who you choose to do the work. Solicitors, with their extensive legal training, often charge more than dedicated will writers. Online services are usually the cheapest, but they offer less personal interaction. The complexity of your estate also plays a part. If you've got a lot of assets, multiple properties, or specific wishes about who gets what, it'll naturally take more time and expertise to draft the wills correctly, which can affect the price.

It's really about finding the right balance between cost and confidence. You want to be sure your wishes are captured accurately and legally, so don't just go for the cheapest option without thinking it through.

Saving On Your Mirror Will Writing Fees

Want to keep costs down? Smart thinking! One of the biggest ways to save is by choosing a will writer over a solicitor if your situation isn't overly complicated. Many reputable will writers offer excellent advice at a lower price point. Also, be prepared for your initial meeting. Having a clear idea of your beneficiaries and what you want to happen to your assets will make the process quicker and potentially reduce the hours charged. Some providers might offer package deals or discounts if you're also sorting out other related documents at the same time. It pays to shop around a bit and compare quotes, but always check reviews and credentials before committing.

Who Benefits From Mirror Wills?

Mirror wills are a popular choice for couples, but they aren't necessarily the right fit for everyone. They're essentially two wills that are almost identical, usually made by married couples or civil partners. The idea is that you both leave your assets to each other, and then to the same beneficiaries when you've both passed away. It sounds straightforward, and for many, it is.

Ideal Candidates For Mirror Wills

These wills work best when you and your partner are on the same page about your wishes. Think about it: if you both want your estate to go to each other first, and then to your children or other named individuals in the same way, a mirror will is a pretty neat solution. They're often seen as a cost-effective way for couples to get their affairs in order, especially if your circumstances are relatively simple. It’s a way to ensure that if one of you passes away, the other is looked after, and then your shared legacy goes to the people you both agreed on. This can be particularly helpful for married couples with children, where the primary goal is to provide for the surviving spouse and then pass the remainder to the next generation. It's a good way to avoid the complexities that can arise from intestacy rules.

When Mirror Wills Are Unsuitable

However, mirror wills aren't always the best route. The biggest snag is that the surviving partner can change their will after the first person dies. This means that the wishes you both agreed on might not end up being followed. If you have complex family situations, like children from previous relationships, or if you want to ensure specific assets go to particular people regardless of future events, a mirror will might not offer enough protection. It's also worth noting that if the surviving spouse remarries, their mirror will automatically becomes invalid, which can cause a whole heap of problems.

It's really important to remember that each mirror will is a separate legal document. This means that, technically, either person can change their will at any time, even after the other partner has died. There's no legal tie that forces the survivor to stick to the original plan. This is a key point that many people overlook when considering mirror wills.

Mirror Wills For Blended Families

Mirror wills can be a bit tricky for blended families. While you might both agree to leave everything to each other and then to your respective children, the surviving partner could potentially change their will later on. This could mean that your children from a previous relationship might not inherit as you'd intended. For example, if the surviving spouse remarries, their new spouse could end up inheriting, and your children might be left with nothing. In these situations, it's often better to look at more robust options, perhaps involving trusts, to make sure everyone you want to benefit actually does. Getting professional advice from a solicitor is a good idea here to understand your options for estate planning.

Here's a quick rundown of who might benefit:

• Married couples or civil partners with identical wishes.

• Couples who want to leave their entire estate to each other first.

• Those looking for a straightforward and generally more affordable will option.

• Individuals who understand and accept that the surviving partner can alter their will.

And who might want to think twice:

• Couples with significantly different wishes.

• Individuals in blended families who want to guarantee inheritance for children from previous relationships.

• Anyone who wants to ensure their wishes are legally locked in, regardless of future changes by the survivor.

• People with complex assets or tax considerations.

What's Included In The Mirror Will Cost?

So, you're looking into mirror wills and wondering what exactly you're paying for. It's not just a piece of paper, you know. The cost usually covers a few key stages to make sure your wills are spot on and legally sound.

Consultation And Advice

First off, there's the chat. This is where you and your partner sit down with a will writer or solicitor. They'll ask you loads of questions about your assets, who you want to inherit, and any specific wishes you have. It’s a good chance to ask them anything that’s confusing you. This initial discussion is really important for making sure the wills accurately reflect both your intentions. They'll explain things like executors, guardians for any younger children, and what happens to your belongings.

Drafting And Revisions

After the consultation, the professional will draft the actual will documents. Because mirror wills are essentially two identical wills, this part is usually quite efficient. They'll put all your agreed wishes into legal language. If you're not happy with how something's worded, or if you think of something else, they'll usually make revisions. Most services allow for a couple of rounds of changes to get it just right.

Witnessing And Signing

This is the final step to make the wills legally valid. You and your partner will need to sign the documents in front of two independent witnesses. The will writer will usually arrange this and make sure everything is done correctly. It’s a bit formal, but it’s necessary to avoid any problems later on. Getting this right is key, and professionals know the exact rules.

The price you pay for mirror wills often reflects the level of support you receive. While cheaper online options exist, they might not offer the same depth of advice or handle complex situations as well. It's about finding a balance between cost and peace of mind for your estate planning.

Here's a rough idea of what's typically included:

• Personal Details: Full names, addresses, and marital status.

• Executors: The people you appoint to carry out your will's instructions.

• Beneficiaries: Who inherits your assets.

• Gifts & Legacies: Specific items or sums of money you want to leave.

• Residuary Estate: Who gets what's left after specific gifts are distributed.

• Guardians: If you have minor children, who will look after them.

• Funeral Wishes: Any specific requests you have for your funeral.

• Substitute Beneficiaries: Backup people in case your main beneficiaries die first.

Choosing The Right Mirror Will Provider

So, you've decided mirror wills are the way to go for you and your partner. That's a sensible step for many couples. But where do you actually get them made? It’s not like popping down to the corner shop for a loaf of bread. You need to pick the right place to sort out these important documents. The cost can vary quite a bit, and you want to make sure you're getting good value and, more importantly, a will that actually does what you want it to.

Solicitor Vs Will Writer Costs

When you're looking at getting your mirror wills sorted, you'll likely come across two main types of professionals: solicitors and will writers. They both do the same job, in theory, but their pricing and approach can be quite different. Solicitors often have higher overheads, which can mean their fees are a bit steeper. However, they are regulated by bodies like the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), which offers a certain level of protection. Will writers, on the other hand, can sometimes be more affordable. It's worth checking if they are members of any professional bodies, like the Society of Will Writers (SWW), as this can give you some confidence in their standards.

Here's a rough idea of what you might expect:

Provider Type	Typical Cost (for a pair of mirror wills)	Pros	Cons
Solicitor	£300 - £600+	Highly regulated, extensive legal knowledge	Can be more expensive, potentially less flexible
Will Writer	£200 - £400	Often more affordable, can be more flexible	Regulation can vary, check membership of professional bodies

Online Will Services Explained

Then there are the online will services. These have become really popular because they're often the cheapest option. You usually fill out a questionnaire online, and the service generates your will based on your answers. It's quick and convenient, especially if your situation is pretty straightforward. However, it's vital to be sure your answers accurately reflect your wishes and that you haven't missed anything important. If your estate is complex, or you have specific concerns like blended families or significant assets, an online service might not be detailed enough. It's a bit like buying a suit off the rack versus getting one tailor-made – one is quicker and cheaper, but the other fits perfectly.

• Simplicity: Great for basic wills with straightforward beneficiaries.

• Speed: You can often get your will drafted very quickly.

• Cost: Generally the most budget-friendly option.

• Risk: Potential for errors if your situation isn't simple or if you misunderstand questions.

Importance Of Professional Advice

No matter which route you choose, getting professional advice is a good idea. Even if you opt for a cheaper online service, consider having a solicitor or experienced will writer review it. They can spot potential issues you might have missed. For instance, a surviving spouse can technically change a mirror will after the first partner dies, which might not be what you both intended. A professional can advise on ways to add protections, like using trusts, to prevent this if it's a concern for you. It’s about making sure your wishes are protected for the long term, not just a quick fix.

When you're writing a will, it's easy to get caught up in the details of who gets what. But don't forget to think about who will actually do all the work – the executors. Choosing reliable people who you trust to handle your affairs after you're gone is just as important as deciding on the beneficiaries themselves. Make sure they're up for the job and know what's expected.

Potential Risks And Considerations

While mirror wills seem like a straightforward way for couples to sort out their estates, they aren't without their potential downsides. It's really important to get your head around these before you commit, so you don't end up with unintended consequences down the line. Think of it like this: you're both agreeing on a plan, but that plan can sometimes be changed by one of you later on.

Can A Surviving Spouse Change A Mirror Will?

This is probably the biggest point of confusion with mirror wills. The short answer is yes, the surviving spouse or partner can change their will. Each mirror will is a separate legal document. This means that even though you both agreed on the terms when you made them, the person left behind isn't legally bound to stick to them. They can alter their will at any time, even after the first person has passed away. This could mean disinheriting children, changing beneficiaries, or even leaving their estate to a new partner if they remarry. It's a bit like agreeing to a route on a map, but one of you can decide to take a detour later without telling the other.

Avoiding Common Mirror Will Pitfalls

There are a few common traps people fall into with mirror wills. One is assuming they're set in stone once made. As we've discussed, this isn't the case. Another pitfall is not considering blended families. If one partner has children from a previous relationship, and the surviving partner remarries, those children might not inherit anything if the will isn't structured carefully. Also, relying on DIY will kits can sometimes lead to errors that make the will invalid or cause disputes. It's always a good idea to get professional advice, especially if your situation is a bit complex. You can find out more about when professional advice is needed here.

Mirror Wills Versus Mutual Wills

If the idea of the surviving spouse being able to change their will really bothers you, then you might want to look into mutual wills instead. Mutual wills are different because both parties legally agree not to change their wills after the other has died, without the other's consent. This creates a binding agreement. While mirror wills are essentially two identical wills, mutual wills are two wills made in accordance with a binding agreement. This agreement means the survivor can't just alter their will later on. It's a much more rigid structure, and you'd need to be absolutely sure you both want the same outcome for the long term. It's a bit like a contract versus a handshake.

It's vital to remember that while mirror wills offer a simple and often cost-effective solution for couples, they do carry inherent risks. The flexibility that allows the surviving partner to change their will, while sometimes seen as a benefit, can also be a significant drawback if intentions change or circumstances evolve unexpectedly. Understanding this distinction is key to making an informed decision about your estate planning.

Key Benefits Of Mirror Wills

So, why do so many couples opt for mirror wills? Well, there are a few solid reasons that make them a popular choice for estate planning. They're designed for couples, usually married or in a civil partnership, who generally want their affairs to be handled in a similar way.

Cost-Effectiveness For Couples

One of the most attractive aspects of mirror wills is how they stack up financially. Compared to drafting two entirely separate and unique wills, mirror wills often come with a lower price tag. This is because the legal professionals drafting them can use a template structure, making the process more efficient. It’s a way to get your affairs in order without breaking the bank, which is always a plus when you're managing household finances.

• Reduced professional fees: Often cheaper than two individual wills.

• Streamlined process: Less time spent by the solicitor means lower costs.

• Clear structure: A consistent approach for both partners.

Protection From Intestacy Rules

Dying without a valid will, known as dying intestate, means the state decides who gets your assets. This can be a messy business, and the rules might not reflect your actual wishes at all. For couples, this could mean your surviving partner doesn't automatically inherit everything, or that your children might not get what you intended. Mirror wills provide a clear plan, ensuring your assets go to your chosen beneficiaries and avoiding the arbitrary distribution dictated by intestacy laws. This gives you peace of mind knowing your legacy is protected according to your own desires.

Having a will in place, whether it's a mirror will or another type, is a fundamental step in responsible financial planning. It's about making sure your loved ones are looked after and that your wishes are respected after you're gone. It’s not just about assets; it’s about providing clarity and preventing potential family disputes down the line.

Flexibility And Estate Planning

While mirror wills are designed to reflect shared intentions, they also offer a degree of flexibility. They provide a clear framework for how you both want your estate to be distributed, typically with the surviving partner inheriting everything first, followed by a shared set of beneficiaries. This structure is particularly useful for couples who want to ensure their children or other loved ones are provided for. It simplifies the process of estate planning for two people, making it easier to coordinate your wishes and secure your family's future. It's a straightforward way to manage your combined assets and plan for the long term, giving you a clear path forward for your estate planning.

It's important to remember that while mirror wills are a great starting point, they do have limitations. The surviving spouse can technically change their will after the first partner's death. If this is a concern, discussing options like trusts with your legal advisor might be beneficial.

Mirror wills are a smart way for couples to make sure their wishes are followed. They're basically identical wills that you both make, agreeing on how your things should be shared. This stops any confusion later on. Want to learn more about how this can help you? Visit our website today to find out.

Wrapping Up: Mirror Wills and Your Peace of Mind

So, we've looked at what mirror wills are and how they work for couples in the UK. They're a popular choice, often costing between £200 and £400 when you go through a solicitor or a professional will writer, which is generally the safest route. While cheaper online options exist, they might not be the best if your situation is a bit more complex. Remember, while mirror wills are great for ensuring you and your partner have aligned wishes, the surviving partner can change their will later on. If that's a worry, looking into trusts or mutual wills might be worth considering. Ultimately, getting your wills sorted, whatever type you choose, is about making sure your wishes are clear and your loved ones are looked after. It’s a big step, but it brings a lot of peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do mirror wills generally cost in the UK?

For a pair of mirror wills, you're typically looking at a price range of about £200 to £400. This can change depending on who you choose to write your will – a solicitor might cost a bit more than a dedicated will writer, and online services are often the cheapest. Keep in mind that really cheap options might be for very simple situations and might not cover everything you need.

What's usually included when I pay for mirror wills?

When you pay for mirror wills, the cost usually covers a chat with an expert to talk about what you want to happen to your stuff. They'll help you figure out who gets what and answer any questions. Then, they'll write up the wills, let you check them and make any changes, and finally, they'll make sure they're signed and witnessed correctly.

Can a surviving partner change a mirror will after the other has passed away?

Yes, this is a really important point! Even though they are called 'mirror' wills and are meant to be the same, the person who is still alive can actually change their will. They don't have to stick to what was originally agreed, which means they could decide to leave their estate to different people.

Are mirror wills the best choice for everyone?

Mirror wills are great for couples who have the exact same wishes for their estate and want a simple, cost-effective way to plan. However, they might not be suitable if you have very different ideas about who should inherit, or if you have a complicated family situation like a blended family where you need to be extra careful about protecting everyone's inheritance.

What's the difference between mirror wills and mutual wills?

The big difference is that mutual wills become legally locked in place once the first person dies, meaning the survivor can't change them. Mirror wills, on the other hand, don't have this lock; the surviving partner can change their will. So, mutual wills offer certainty, while mirror wills offer more flexibility for the survivor.

Can unmarried couples use mirror wills?

Yes, absolutely! Mirror wills aren't just for married couples or civil partners. Unmarried couples who live together and share similar plans for their estate can also use mirror wills. It's a good way for them to make sure they're both looked after and that their wishes for who inherits are clear.