Why Having a Will Matters

Why Having a Will Matters

At Oakworth, we help individuals and families build financial plans that give them peace of mind — not just for today, but for the future. While we don’t offer will-writing services ourselves, we regularly see the significant benefits of having a valid and up-to-date will in place.

A will is more than just a legal document — it’s a vital part of ensuring that your financial plans are carried out according to your wishes, and that your loved ones are protected.

What Is a Will?

A will sets out how you want your estate (everything you own) to be distributed after your death. It also allows you to appoint guardians for your children and name executors — the people you trust to carry out your wishes.

Why Is a Will So Important?

Even if your finances are relatively straightforward, a will offers clear and lasting benefits:

• Clarity and Control
  Without a will, your estate is divided according to the rules of intestacy — which may not reflect your wishes, particularly if you’re unmarried or have stepchildren.

• Protection for Loved Ones
  A will allows you to support those you care about, including vulnerable dependants, in exactly the way you choose.

• Avoiding Disputes
  Clearly stated intentions help minimise confusion, delay, and family disagreements during what is already a difficult time.

• Faster, Smoother Administration
  A well-prepared will can simplify the probate process and reduce unnecessary legal costs.

• Supports Tax and Estate Planning
  As financial planners, we often work with clients to reduce inheritance tax and plan for the transfer of wealth. A will is a key piece of that puzzle.

Who Should Make a Will?

Nearly everyone. But it’s especially important if you:

• Own property or other valuable assets

• Have children or dependants

• Are married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting

• Run a business or hold shares

• Want specific control over how your estate is distributed

How Oakworth Can Help

While we don’t draft wills, we work closely with legal professionals who do — and we’ll often highlight the importance of a will during your financial planning journey. Ensuring that your financial arrangements are aligned with your wishes after death is a natural extension of the work we do.

We can also help you understand how your investments, pensions, and protection plans fit into your wider estate, and identify opportunities to make things as tax-efficient as possible.

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Next Steps:
If you don’t yet have a will — or haven’t updated yours in years — we strongly encourage you to speak to a qualified solicitor or estate planner. At Oakworth, we’re here to support and guide you in building a complete and resilient plan for your future.