It is recommended that you review your Will every year to ensure it’s still up to date. If your circumstances have changed, you should definitely make changes to your Will. This could include a change to your relationship status (leaving a relationship or beginning a new one), an addition to your family (such as a grandchild), the purchase of any appreciating goods, or a beneficiary named on your Will has changed their name or passed away for example.
Note: your Will is likely invalid if it hasn’t been signed and witnessed correctly or if it hasn’t been updated since remarrying. There are other circumstances where your Will may be invalid too – see the Public Trust website.
It is advisable to consult a specialist when looking to make a Will. Ask about the cost; some organisations or lawyers may do this for free if they are also named as the executor of the estate. However, often administration costs are more than if you had paid for this in the first instance. You can also make a ‘do it yourself ’ Will, but you need to investigate this fully and comply with certain criteria in order for it to be deemed valid.
This information is of a general nature. It is not intended as a substitute for specific professional advice on any matter and should not be relied upon for that purpose. It is not an alternative to legal advice and does not replace any requirements under any relevant Act, Regulations, Code of Practice, Rule, Standards or Orders. While we have endeavoured to ensure this information is accurate and as useful as possible, we accept no responsibility, loss or liability resulting from the use of this information. We urge you to seek appropriate or professional advice on all issues such as this.
Updated: 11 Apr 2023