Money

Retirement

Will-writing software

A computer

It is not essential to see a solicitor to make a will, writes Andrew Stucken

Packs for creating Do-It-Yourself wills have long been on sale in stationers - and it is no surprise that it is now possible to do it by computer.

Two electronic methods - websites and software packages - now offer to do the job for you.

Professional will-writing services and solicitors can charge up to £150, whereas DIY kits start at £10 - so the cash saving is significant.

Better still, you can use the electronic list as often as you like for no extra cost – unlike when you see a solicitor.

An example of online offerings is at www.tenminutewill.co.uk - where for £29.99 you get free rewrites and expert checking. They carry professional indemnity insurance but say that in seven years no will has even been challenged.

Lawpack provide an online alternative to their traditional printed will forms. Whereas nearly all other packages on the market provide a question-and-answer format, Lawpack provides templates for you to fill in yourself.

As for the cheapest option, that is a software package, Willmaker by GSP. Like most of the options we looked at, it guides you through the process by means of a question-and-answer.

It is worth pointing out that wills produced by the standard version are only available in England and Wales. Moreover, for estates over the inheritance tax threshold (currently £312,000) you will need the Deluxe version at £29.99. See www.avanquest.com/uk for all details.

And top-rated out of all the electronic options in one independent survey** was Willcraft at www.willcraft.co.uk

At £39.99 it is the most expensive of the options we surveyed - but is probably the easiest of the options to use.

All wills created using the above products are legally valid – if used properly. An important caveat with all the DIY will kits however is whether the will really meets your needs. Can you be sure you that you have considered every angle and future permutation? Legal experts point out that if you have complicated affairs you should see a professional. As one said: “I’ve seen many clients after they made DIY wills a year or two earlier - and then worried whether there was something wrong with them.”

For those with simpler affairs, DIY wills do save money - but if in doubt see a solicitor.

** Source: Which? Computing, May 2008.

* Writer, journalist and qualified TEFL teacher Andrew Stucken runs his own translation agency at www.appliedtranslations.co.uk. Andrew's opinions are his own and for general information only. Always seek independent financial advice.

Saga links: