Wills ‘can save partners from legal hassles’

Posted 11/11/2009

Consumers have been reminded to ensure they write Willsin order to make sure their surviving partner is not left with difficulty claiming an inheritance.

The Daily Mail has warned that UK residents who do not incorporate the documents into their estate planning risk leaving their spouse at the mercy of the state’s intestacy rules.

This may result in partners or other dependents losing out on money which was intended for them, while inheritance tax is also an issue if couples are unmarried.

Britons were also warned that unusual family circumstances, such as the presence of stepchildren, can make inheritance issues even more complex.

The newspaper recommended that consumers seek advice from solicitors, saying: “It’s best to use a professional, as even simple Willscan lead to complications.”

Last month, Unbiased.co.uk revealed that 65 per cent of British people with children do not have Wills, with a lack of motivation or understanding cited as common reasons.