The question of where to keep a Will once it has been written is a common one. Here is our advice on this subject.
Firstly, if you engaged a company to write the Will for you make sure you have been given a paper copy to keep at home. Make the location known to your spouse or partner and any close family or friends if you wish, and of course, your executors.
So many people think that their Will should be hidden and secret but this could result in your last wishes not being carried out because the Will could not be located before the funeral.
However, while keeping a copy at home is good practice it is also recommended that you store a duplicate somewhere so it’s good to know what those options are.
Your Will Writer or Family Solicitor
If you employed someone to draw up the Will for you it is not uncommon for them to keep a copy on your behalf. The Family Solicitor is also an option, but be aware of their charges before you agree.
Electronic Wills Storage
You can store your Will electronically, and there are companies who will do this for a fee but you can equally keep an electronic copy yourself if you wish. Just remember to save any updates so that you only have the most recent saved.
Bank Storage
Some banks offer a Will storage service but there will charge a fee for this. It is not recommended that you store your will in a safety deposit box at your bank as the box will not be accessible until probate has been granted, and probate cannot be granted without producing the original Will!
Probate Registry Will Storage
You can request that your Will is stored at the Probate Registry office. They will also charge a small fee for storing your Will. Contact your local Probate Registry office for more details.
Where would I register my Will?
If you wanted to register your Will you would do so here: https://www.nationalwillregister.co.uk/
Is my Will valid if I haven’t registered it?
There is no legal requirement in the UK to register a Will. Under the Registration Act, 1908 a Will does not have to be notarised or written on stamp paper either.
Why do people register a Will?
The key reason for registering a Will is so that it can be easily and quickly located. If probate was required a valid Will would need to be produced in order to start the process. If the paper copy could not be located this would delay the process.
Summary
- Keep a paper copy in your home where those who need it can find it and keep a duplicate in a separate location.
- Remember to update the duplicate if you update the original Will.
- It is good practice to register your Will here but there is no legal requirement to do so.
- Registering your Will makes it easier for your executors to locate it.
- If you need any help or advice with this issue get in touch with us here:https://beesandco.com/contact/
