As the law is constantly evolving and people’s lives change dramatically, it is recommended to review your Will at least every 3-5 years to ensure it has the outcome you want it to.
Chris Stone, Solicitor and Deputy Head of the Wills, Trusts & Probate department at Jackson Lees shares the most important reasons why keeping your will up to date is just as crucial as creating one in the first place.
Marriage or Civil Partnership Changes Everything
In the UK, getting married or entering a civil partnership automatically revokes any existing will— unless it was written in contemplation of marriage.
Failing to update your Will after an important life event such as this means that your estate would be divided subject to intestacy laws which may not reflect your true intentions. This is especially important for subsequent marriages and blended families.
For example, you have recently married but also have children from a previous marriage and have not created a new Will. If you then pass away, your spouse is entitled to your personal chattels (moveable property), a statutory legacy of £322,000.00 and 50% of your residuary estate with the other 50% going to any children you have in equal parts.
Divorce or Separation? Time for a Review
Contrary to marriage, divorce doesn’t revoke your Will but the way your Will is interpreted will change. Essentially, any gifts or roles assigned to your ex-spouse are treated as if they’ve passed away. This can create confusion or unintended consequences, so it’s wise to revise your will during or after a separation.
For example, your ex-spouse was named as the sole executor and one of the beneficiaries to half of your residuary estate and you did not update your Will after your divorce. In this scenario, once you die, one of your other named beneficiaries would have to apply to administer your estate and this can be a longer and more complicated process. Your named beneficiary may not even necessarily be someone you think would want the role of administering your estate and so it is important to ensure you review your Will upon a divorce.
New Family Members and Those Financially Dependent on You
Whether it’s the birth of a child, grandchild, or stepchild, expanding your family is a perfect reason to revisit your will. Updating it ensures that each loved one is recognised and provided for according to your wishes. Seeing a legal professional for this is essential as you can ensure you future proof your Will by adding clauses which could include any children or grandchildren you may have later in life.
This is especially important if someone is dependent on you. For example, you adopt or have a stepchild who is not provided for in your Will for whatever reason. This may lead to complications when you die as they can bring a claim against your estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 for reasonable financial provision to be made for them. This can be a costly and lengthy process which can even affect family ties.
Loss of a Beneficiary or Executor
If someone named in your will—either as a beneficiary or executor— passes away, your will needs to be updated. You may need to appoint a new executor or decide how to redistribute the assets that were originally intended for the deceased.
For more complex estates, professional executors could be appointed in your Will. A professional executor’s expertise cannot be understated and will help reduce the stress of the probate process on your loved ones.
Buying or Selling Property
Acquiring a new home or selling an existing one can significantly impact your estate. Your will should reflect your current property holdings to avoid confusion or disputes later on.
Major Financial Changes
A sudden windfall, starting a business, or a shift in your financial situation should prompt a review of your Will. Perhaps you have received an inheritance from someone else’s estate, or your business has really taken off? Ensuring your estate plan matches your current wealth helps protect your assets and your beneficiaries.
Legal and Tax Updates
Laws around inheritance and taxation can change as we’ve seen recently with most pension funds due to fall into an estate from 6 April 2027 for inheritance tax purposes and Agricultural and Business property relief changes due to take effect from 6 April 2026.
Regularly reviewing your Will with a legal expert helps you stay compliant and may even reduce the inheritance tax burden on your estate. It’s also essential if you’re in a long-term relationship but not married—your partner won’t automatically inherit unless they’re named in your Will.
Routine Reviews for Peace of Mind
Even if nothing major has changed, it’s good practice to review your will every three to five years. Life moves fast, and a regular check-in ensures your will still reflects your current wishes and circumstances.
How Jackson Lees Can Support You
Your will should grow and change with you. At Jackson Lees, our Wills, Trusts and Probate team is here to help you keep your will current and effective. Whether you’re navigating a major life event or just due for a review, we’ll ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally sound.
Do you need your will updating? Please give us a call, request a callback or make an enquiry to find out how our team can help.