Top tips

There are a number of companies who to reduce costs, do not hold PII. Check to ensure PII is held, it’s simply not worth the risk.

Whilst having a place, and undoubtedly more improved than they were a few years ago, due to technology. If you take this option there is a strong probability you will not receive advice, leaving it very much open to mistakes with the responsibility very much down to you to get it right. Costs are therefore minimised.

Please also check, the company is regulated

Quality Estate Planning advice matters.

When it comes to estate planning, the old saying rings true: you get what you pay for.

While low-cost services may seem appealing, they often provide little more than a basic, one-size-fits-all process. In many cases, it’s simply about taking instructions—not offering real, tailored advice.

But estate planning is about so much more than just writing a Will. It’s about understanding your life, your family, your assets, and your wishes—and ensuring everything is set up properly to protect those you love.

If you want peace of mind that your family won’t face unnecessary complications down the line, it’s worth investing in advice from experienced professionals who genuinely care and know how to guide you through the process.

A “free” Will can often come with hidden costs that only become clear later on. Here are some common catches to watch out for:

1. Executor Fees – The company providing the free Will may appoint themselves as executors, charging sometimes between 2%–7% of your estate upon your passing.
2. Ongoing Annual Charges – You might be locked into annual fees, for example, for storage.
3. Extra Charges for Essentials – Anything outside a very basic Will often comes at an additional cost.
4. Charity Gifting – Some “free” Wills include suggested donations to charities you didn’t choose, which can feel more like an obligation than a gesture.

It’s always wise to read the fine print and ensure you understand exactly what’s included—and what isn’t. Transparent, expert advice is worth investing in.

Appointing a professional executor can be a smart and reassuring choice. They bring expertise, objectivity, and the ability to manage complex estates—often at a time when emotions are running high.

However, it’s essential to choose wisely. Make sure you fully understand:

• The fees involved – A reasonable charge is typically around or below 2% of the estate.
• Their level of experience – Your executor should not only be capable of carrying out your wishes but also able to provide valuable advice that can help protect your estate for future generations.

Trust and transparency are key. The right professional executor will offer both, guiding your loved ones with care and competence when it matters most.

Be Cautious with Trusts and Tax Advice.

If you’re including trusts as part of your estate plan, it’s vital to ensure they don’t negatively impact your Inheritance Tax (IHT) position. IHT planning is an essential part of estate planning, and any adviser who doesn’t address it may not be offering the full picture.

Avoid relying on well-meaning but misguided advice—such as transferring your home into your children’s names to sidestep care fees or inheritance tax. Misunderstood versions of the seven-year rule and informal advice from friends, our well meaning ‘mate from the local pub’ or even friends or family, can and have led to serious consequences.

When it comes to protecting your estate and your loved ones, always seek guidance from a qualified professional who understands the intricacies of estate and tax law.

It’s important to understand that trusts are not one-size-fits-all. While they can be incredibly effective tools when set up properly, they can become restrictive and problematic if they’re not tailored to your specific needs.

Every family is different, and so is every estate plan. A generic trust might seem convenient, but it can lead to unintended consequences down the line.

With the right structure, a trust can include important clauses such as:

•  Allowing someone to live in your property, with the home passing to your beneficiaries when they pass away, remarry, or after a specified period.
• Ensuring funds aren’t released all at once—ideal in situations where a beneficiary may struggle with money management, have issues with addiction, or risk losing state benefits.
• Providing your partner access to funds for living expenses or moving home, while still protecting the core of your estate for your family and keeping it safe from third-party claims.

A good adviser will take the time to understand your family circumstances in full, and recommend trust structures that are thoughtfully designed around your life—not someone else’s.

Getting your affairs in order is a wise and responsible step—but what matters even more is that you fully understand the decisions you’re making and feel completely comfortable moving forward.

There’s no pressure to commit to anything on the day if you’re not ready. This is your plan, your future, and your peace of mind.

If it helps, you’re more than welcome to bring a trusted family member or friend to your meeting. We want you to feel supported and confident every step of the way.

Selecting the right individuals for these responsibilities is just as important as the planning itself.

When deciding who to appoint, take the time to consider factors like:

1. Capability – Are they able to handle the responsibilities involved?
2. Age & Health – Will they likely be able to act when the time comes?
3. Location – Are they close enough to be involved if needed?
4. Family Situation – Could personal circumstances affect their ability to act?
5. Trustworthiness – Do you feel confident they’ll carry out your wishes with integrity?

Making thoughtful choices now can help ensure everything runs smoothly later.