When should you write your first will?

Writing a will might not be at the top of your to-do list, especially if you’re young or just starting out. However, having one in place is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and make sure your wishes are carried out.

So, when is the right time to write your first will? The truth is, there isn’t a single answer—it depends on your life circumstances. But there are certain milestones that make writing a will not just important, but practical.

Let’s take a look at these key stages and why you should think about putting your wishes in writing.

Why everyone should have a will

A will lets you decide how your estate will be divided after you’re gone. Without one, the law decides who inherits your property, money, and possessions. This can lead to complications, especially if your situation isn’t straightforward.

If you die without a will, your loved ones may face delays, legal disputes, or even miss out on assets you intended for them. Writing a will provides clarity and peace of mind, both for you and your family.

Life stages to write your first will

1) Buying a house

Becoming a homeowner is one of the biggest financial milestones in life. Once you own property, it’s important to decide what will happen to it if you’re no longer around. Without a will, your home could end up being distributed in ways you didn’t expect or want.

Every new homeowner should have a will, because it helps protect your investment and makes sure it goes to the person (or people) you choose. Whether you want to leave the property to a spouse, children, or other family members, a will gives you full control.

2) Getting married or entering a civil partnership

Marriage or a civil partnership automatically invalidates any existing wills. This means that if you don’t write a new one, your estate will be divided according to the law, which may not align with your wishes.

By writing your first will after tying the knot, you can specify how your assets should be divided between your partner, children, or other beneficiaries. A solicitor or professional will writer can guide you through this process and help tailor your will to reflect your priorities.

3) Having children

Becoming a parent changes everything, including your financial responsibilities. Writing your first will as a new parent allows you to name a guardian for your children, ensuring they’ll be cared for by someone you trust if you and your partner are no longer around.

A will also lets you set up provisions for your children’s future, such as funding their education or safeguarding their inheritance until they reach a certain age. By planning ahead, you can provide long-term security for your family.

4) Handling foreign investments or digital assets

If you have assets abroad or online, such as cryptocurrency or social media accounts, it’s important to include them in your will. Failing to do so could result in these assets becoming inaccessible to your loved ones.

For example, specifying how to handle digital assets in your will can help avoid confusion over passwords or ownership rights. Similarly, addressing foreign investments in your will ensures that property or financial accounts outside the UK are distributed according to your wishes.

5) Starting or growing your business

If you own a business, your will can outline what should happen to it when you pass away. This is especially important if you want to transfer ownership to a family member, partner, or colleague.

A well-written will can also help prevent disputes and make the probate process smoother for those managing your estate.

What to include in your first will

When writing your first will, there are a few key things to think about:

• Your assets: Include property, savings, investments, and personal possessions.
• Beneficiaries: Decide who will inherit your assets.
• Guardianship: Name a guardian for any children under 18.
• Executors: Choose someone you trust to carry out the terms of your will. This could be a professional, such as a solicitor, or a family member.

If your situation changes—whether through marriage, divorce, or buying new assets—it’s important to update your will to reflect your current wishes.

How to store your will

Once you’ve written your will, make sure it’s kept in a safe and accessible location. Telling your executor where to find it is just as important as writing it in the first place.

Options for storing your will include:

• At home in a fireproof safe.
• With a solicitor.
• Through a secure storage service.

Keeping your will secure reduces the chance of it being lost or forgotten when it’s needed most.

Can wills and trusts work together?

If your estate is more complex, such as having multiple properties or dependents with special needs, combining a will with a trust might be a good idea. Trusts provide more flexibility in managing and distributing assets, particularly when there are long-term considerations.

If you’re unsure whether a trust might be useful for your situation, speak to a professional for advice. For more details, check out our guide on wills and trusts.

Final thoughts

There’s no “right” time to write your first will, but certain life stages—such as buying a house, getting married, or having children—make it a smart step. A will protects your loved ones and gives you control over how your estate is handled.

Whether you’re creating your first will or updating an existing one, working with a professional will writer can simplify the process and make sure your wishes are clear. Don’t leave it too late—start planning today and give yourself peace of mind for the future.