Understanding the Costs: How Much Do Wills Cost in the UK?
- East Sussex Wills
- Sep 2, 2025
- 12 min read
Thinking about getting your Will sorted is a really sensible thing to do. It means your wishes are clear for when you're gone. But then the big question comes up: how much does writing a Will cost in the UK? It's not a simple answer because the price can change quite a bit. It depends on whether you do it yourself, use a service online, or go to a solicitor. We'll break down what you can expect to pay so you can work out what's best for you and your budget.
Key Takeaways
The cost of a Will in the UK varies widely, from free for DIY options to over £1,000 for complex solicitor-drafted documents.
DIY Will kits are the cheapest, usually costing £10-£30, but they might not be suitable for complicated estates.
Online Will writing services offer a middle ground, typically costing £80-£150, providing convenience and some guidance.
Solicitor-drafted Wills range from around £200-£600 for simple cases to £500-£1,000+ for complex ones, offering legal expertise.
Consider extra costs like document storage or updates, and whether mirror Wills are suitable for couples.
Understanding The Cost Of Writing A Will In The UK
So, you're thinking about getting a Will sorted, which is a smart move. But then the big question pops up: how much does writing a Will cost in the UK? It's not as simple as a single price tag, you know. The cost can really bounce around depending on a few things, like whether you do it yourself, use an online service, or go the full solicitor route. We'll break down what you can expect to pay, so you can figure out what works best for your wallet and your peace of mind.
Factors Influencing Will Writing Costs
Several things can affect how much you'll end up paying for a Will. It's not just a one-size-fits-all price.
Complexity of your estate: If you have a lot of assets, like multiple properties, businesses, or investments, especially if they're spread across different countries, your Will will naturally be more detailed. This means more work for whoever is drafting it.
Type of Will: A simple Will, leaving everything to your spouse and then your children, is generally cheaper than a Will that sets up trusts, has specific conditions for beneficiaries, or deals with complex family situations like blended families.
Who you choose to write it: You have options ranging from doing it yourself with a kit, using an online service, or hiring a solicitor. Each comes with a different price tag and level of support.
It's worth remembering that the cheapest option isn't always the best. A Will is a really important legal document, and getting it wrong can cause significant problems for your loved ones after you're gone. Sometimes, paying a bit more for professional advice is a sensible investment.
The Range Of Expenses For A Will
So, what can you actually expect to pay? It really does vary.
Service Type | Typical Cost Range (UK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
DIY Will Kit | £10 - £30 | Requires you to do all the drafting and checking. |
Online Will Service | £50 - £200 | More structured than DIY, but less personal advice. |
Solicitor (Simple Will) | £150 - £400 | Basic instructions, straightforward estate. |
Solicitor (Complex Will) | £500 - £1,000+ | Involves trusts, business assets, multiple properties, tax planning. |
While the cost can seem a bit daunting, remember that getting your affairs in order provides immense peace of mind. Many solicitors offer initial consultations, and you might even find opportunities like Will Aid where basic wills are drafted for free in exchange for a donation to charity.
DIY Wills: The Most Affordable Option
When you're looking to get a will sorted without breaking the bank, the DIY route often comes up first. It's definitely the cheapest way to go about it, and for people with pretty straightforward wishes, it can be a perfectly good option. You're essentially taking charge of the whole process yourself, using templates or kits to get the job done.
Cost Effectiveness of DIY Wills
DIY will kits are usually the most budget-friendly option available. You can find them in a few different forms. Some are simple paper forms you fill out, while others are downloadable templates you can adapt on your computer. Prices can range from free for basic templates to around £25 for more structured kits. For instance, services like Lawpack offer templates for a modest fee, and Compact Law even provides some for free. It's a good starting point if you're on a tight budget or just want to get the basics down. Creating a new will in the UK can cost between £125 and £260, depending on the complexity of the changes required, so the DIY approach is significantly cheaper.
Here's a rough idea of what you might expect:
Type of DIY Will | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Free Online Templates | £0 | Basic, may require careful checking |
Paid Online Templates/Kits | £10 - £30 | More structured, often with guidance |
Paper Forms | £10 - £30 | Physical documents to fill in |
Limitations of DIY Wills
There are certainly upsides to going the DIY route, but it's not without its potential pitfalls. It's worth weighing these up before you commit. The most significant drawback is the absence of legal expertise. DIY templates may not always account for specific legal requirements, meaning there's a risk of creating a Will that is not legally valid or does not accurately reflect your intentions. Even small mistakes in wording or formatting can lead to ambiguities or challenges during the probate process, potentially delaying the distribution of assets and causing unnecessary stress for your loved ones.
DIY Wills are generally suitable for individuals with relatively simple estates. If you have complex assets, such as multiple properties, businesses, or investments, or if you want to establish trusts or include detailed provisions, DIY solutions may not adequately address your needs.
Making a mistake in your will, even a small one, can have significant consequences down the line. It might mean your wishes aren't followed, or it could lead to costly legal battles for your family. It's a bit like trying to build flat-pack furniture without the instructions – you might get there, but it's easy to end up with a wobbly result.
Ultimately, while DIY wills are the cheapest, they're best suited for people with very simple and clear wishes for their estate. If there's any doubt about complexity, it's always wise to consider getting some professional input, even if it's just a review.
Online Will Writing Services: A Middle Ground
For many people, the idea of writing a Will can feel a bit daunting. You might not have super complicated affairs, but you also don't want to just grab a cheap form from the corner shop and hope for the best. This is where online will writing services really step in. They aim to be that middle ground, offering more guidance than a DIY kit but without the price tag of a solicitor.
Typical Costs For Online Wills
Generally, you're looking at spending somewhere between £80 and £150 for a single Will through an online service. If you're a couple and want matching Wills (often called mirror Wills), the cost might be a bit more, perhaps £120 to £200 for the pair. These prices are usually fixed, so you know what you're paying upfront, which is a big plus.
Service Type | Estimated Cost (Single Will) | Estimated Cost (Mirror Wills) |
|---|---|---|
Online Will Writer | £80 - £150 | £120 - £200 |
Benefits And Drawbacks Of Online Services
There are quite a few good things about using these online platforms.
Convenience: You can do it all from your own home, at any time that suits you. No need to book appointments or travel anywhere.
Affordability: As mentioned, they're significantly cheaper than hiring a solicitor, making Will writing accessible to more people.
Guidance: Most sites have step-by-step questions that help you think through what you need to include, which is more than you get with a basic kit.
However, they aren't perfect for everyone.
Limited Complexity: If your situation is a bit unusual – maybe you own property abroad, have complex family arrangements like step-children from previous marriages, or want to set up trusts for beneficiaries – an online service might not be able to handle it. They tend to simplify things, and that can sometimes be a problem if your affairs aren't straightforward.
No Personalised Advice: While they guide you, you don't get that one-on-one chat with a legal expert who can spot potential issues you might have missed.
It's really important to be honest about your own circumstances. If you're unsure whether your situation is simple enough for an online service, it's always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice. Trying to save money now could end up costing your loved ones a lot more later if the Will isn't legally sound.
Solicitor-Drafted Wills: Expertise And Cost
When your personal circumstances get a bit more involved, or you simply want the peace of mind that comes from having a legal expert handle things, a solicitor-drafted Will is often the best route. These aren't just simple forms; they're carefully put together by legal professionals who really know their stuff when it comes to wills and estates. This means they can deal with more complicated family situations, business assets, or even property located overseas with a much higher degree of accuracy.
Costs for Simple Solicitor Wills
For a Will that covers the basics – think straightforward asset distribution and a clear family structure – you're typically looking at a cost between £200 and £600. This price usually includes an initial chat to go over your wishes, the actual drafting of the document, and sometimes even safekeeping of the final Will.
Costs for Complex Solicitor Wills
Things naturally get more expensive when your estate isn't quite so simple. If you own several properties, run a business, have significant investments, or need to set up trusts for beneficiaries, the cost can increase. For these more detailed Wills, you might expect to pay anywhere from £500 up to £1,000 or more. Some firms might even charge extra if Inheritance Tax planning is involved. It's tricky to give an exact figure because each complex Will is so unique.
Type of Will | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Simple Single Will | £200 - £600 | Basic asset distribution, straightforward family situation. |
Complex Single Will | £500 - £1,000+ | Includes trusts, business assets, multiple properties, tax planning. |
Mirror Wills (Pair) | £1,200+ | Two similar Wills for couples, often with complex provisions. |
When to Choose a Solicitor for Your Will
Using a solicitor means your Will is tailored precisely to your wishes and current laws. They handle the legal jargon and make sure all the necessary formalities are met, giving you confidence that your estate will be managed as you intend. Solicitors can also advise on things like inheritance tax planning, which can be a real headache if you try to sort it out yourself. They stay up-to-date with any changes in estate planning laws, making sure your Will remains valid over time. They can also advise on any changes in your circumstances that might mean you need to update your documents.
Engaging a solicitor provides a high level of assurance and customisation. They can help identify potential issues you might have overlooked and ensure the document accurately reflects your intentions, potentially saving your loved ones stress and legal fees later on.
Solicitors can help with:
Providing clear legal advice specific to your situation.
Drafting documents accurately to match your wishes.
Advising on potential tax implications and how to minimise them.
Ensuring the Will is signed and witnessed correctly to be legally valid.
Safeguarding your Will after it's written.
Mirror Wills For Couples
When you're married or in a civil partnership, you might naturally think about getting a joint will or mirror wills. It sounds simpler, right? And often, it can be a bit more cost-effective than getting two completely separate wills drawn up.
Understanding Mirror Wills
Mirror wills are essentially two separate legal documents that are almost identical in their content. They're created by a couple, usually spouses or civil partners, who have similar wishes for their estate. The core idea is that if one partner passes away, their estate passes to the surviving partner. Then, upon the death of the second partner, the estate is distributed to a pre-agreed list of beneficiaries. They're a good fit for couples who are on the same page about what should happen to their assets.
However, they might not be the best choice if your family situations are a bit more complicated. For instance, if you have children from previous relationships, or if you both have significant assets that you want to keep separate, then individual wills might be a better idea. It's all about making sure the will actually matches what you want to happen.
When mirror wills work well:
Married couples or civil partners.
Both partners have very similar wishes for their estate.
A straightforward inheritance plan, e.g., everything to each other, then to children.
When to consider separate wills:
Children from previous relationships.
Significant separate assets or business interests.
Differing wishes regarding beneficiaries or distribution.
Concerns about potential future disputes.
The Cost Of Mirror Wills
Generally, getting mirror wills for a couple is cheaper than having two entirely individual wills made. Think of it this way: a lot of the wording will be the same, so the solicitor or service isn't starting from scratch twice. For a pair of mirror wills, you might expect to pay somewhere in the region of £300 to £500. This is usually less than the combined cost of two separate, standard wills. The price can vary depending on the provider and how complex your wishes are, but you can find options for mirror wills in the UK that fit this range.
Will Type | Typical Cost Range (Pair) |
|---|---|
Mirror Wills | £300 - £500 |
Two Individual Wills | £400 - £800+ |
Note: These are estimates and can vary based on the provider and complexity.
It's easy to think that mirror wills are always the way to go for couples, but it's worth pausing to consider if they truly fit your family's specific circumstances. Sometimes, what seems like the cheaper option upfront might not be the most suitable in the long run.
Potential Additional Costs To Consider
So, you've got a price for your Will, but is that the whole story? Not always. Sometimes, there are other bits and bobs that can add to the final bill, or things you might not have thought about when you first sat down to sort out your Will.
It's a bit like buying a car – the sticker price might not include everything. Some Will writing services, especially online ones or even some solicitors, might have extra charges that aren't immediately obvious. It’s always a good idea to ask upfront what’s included and what’s not. You don't want to be surprised later.
Document Storage Fees
Many providers offer to securely store your Will for you. This can be handy, giving you peace of mind that it's kept safe and can be easily found when needed. However, this service often comes with an annual fee. These can range from about £30 to £100 a year, depending on the company.
Charges For Will Updates
Life changes, doesn't it? Your circumstances might shift, or you might simply want to change who gets what. Making amendments to a Will can cost money. Depending on how complicated the changes are, you could be looking at anywhere from £50 to £100 for each update.
Executor Services Costs
Sometimes, you might ask the Will writing service or a solicitor to act as your executor. This means they'll be responsible for managing your estate when you pass away. They will charge for this service, and the fee is usually calculated as a percentage of your estate's value. This can be quite a significant amount, so it's worth understanding how this is calculated before you agree.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of all potential costs before you agree to anything. Get it in writing if you can, so there are no misunderstandings down the line.
When planning for the future, it's wise to think about any extra costs that might pop up. These could be small things that add up. For a clearer picture of all expenses, why not visit our website today to explore our services and get a personalised quote?
So, What's the Final Word on Will Costs?
Right then, we've looked at the different ways you can get a Will sorted in the UK, from doing it yourself for next to nothing to getting a solicitor involved for a bit more. The price really does jump around depending on what you need – simple wishes are cheaper, but if you've got complicated assets or family setups, you'll likely pay more. Online services seem to hit a sweet spot for many, offering a bit of guidance without the solicitor price tag. Just remember to ask about any extra fees, like storage or updates, so you don't get any nasty surprises later on. Ultimately, getting your Will sorted is about peace of mind, and finding the right option for your budget is totally doable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it typically cost to write a Will in the UK?
The cost of making a Will in the UK can vary a lot. You might find options ranging from free if you do it yourself, up to £1,000 or more if you use a solicitor for complex situations. The price really depends on who helps you, how much help you need, and how complicated your wishes are.
What are the price differences between DIY, online, and solicitor-written Wills?
Doing it yourself using a template or a basic kit is the cheapest way, often costing between £10 and £30. Online services are a bit more, usually between £80 and £150. If you go to a solicitor, a simple Will might start around £150-£250, but complex ones can be £500 to over £1,000.
Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of when using Will writing services?
Yes, there can be extra costs. Some services might charge for storing your Will, or for making changes later on. It's a good idea to ask about these potential extra fees, like storage costs or charges for updates, before you agree to anything.
What are mirror Wills and how much do they usually cost?
A 'mirror Will' is basically two Wills that are almost the same, made by a couple (like married partners). They usually cost around £300 to £500 for both. It can be cheaper than making two completely separate Wills, especially if you both have similar wishes for your money and belongings.
Why is it important to use a solicitor for writing a Will, especially for complex situations?
A solicitor can help make sure your Will is legally correct and follows all the rules, especially if you have a lot of assets, own a business, or have a complicated family situation. They offer expert advice that DIY or online options might miss, giving you peace of mind that everything is handled properly.
What's the difference in cost between joint and individual Wills?
Joint Wills, which cover two people in one document, typically cost between £300 and £500. Individual Wills are usually cheaper. While joint Wills might seem more economical, individual ones offer more flexibility if your wishes change.