While the writing of a Will is a subject which many of us tend to shy away from, it is becoming more and more essential to ensure that your finances are in place should you pass away unexpectedly. 

Wills are not just for the elderly, they should be used as tools to protect your family, friends and partners and ensure that your wishes are carried out.  You would be surprised how many estates end up in court, with friends and family at each others throats!

There is a myth that Wills are complicated affairs and can only be completed by solicitors or lawyers, when in reality they are as complicated or as simple as the writer so wishes.  There are many websites on the internet which will advise you about writing your own Will, what to do, when to do it and how to complete the wording.

There are a number of standard instructions which need to be included in any valid Will, many of which can assist in reducing the high level of inheritance tax levied on estates of today.  It is vital that your tax planning is up to date in order to ensure that those who you wish to benefit will do so, in the most efficient manner.  Discretionary Trustees and gift allowances are some of the more common and simpler ways to ensure that you estate is left in good shape for those left behind.

It seems that the authorities continue to see estates as a great source of extra taxation, and it is highly likely that we will see further relative increases in the tax return from this area of finance.  Ensure that you protect all which you have worked for, even in death, and make your Will as efficient as possible.