Many attorneys think they can keep paying bills or use the donor’s bank account after death — but the moment they pass away, your Power of Attorney ends. Accounts should be frozen straight away, and only the executor can access funds. Even well-meaning payments can leave you personally liable. Learn why this rule exists and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Many couples think a joint account means smooth sailing if one loses capacity — but banks can freeze accounts, even for essentials, without a registered LPA. Learn why this happens, how banks find out, and why avoiding a Deputyship Order is key. Toucan Law makes setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney simple, affordable, and stress-free so your finances and loved ones stay protected.

Many believe the 7-year rule wipes out Inheritance Tax on gifts, but if you still benefit from what you’ve given away, HMRC may treat it as though you never gave it up. This is called a Gift with Reservation of Benefit (GWR). Common traps include giving your home to children or putting it into a trust but continuing to live there rent-free. GWR rules can lead to unexpected tax bills and other risks — get advice before making large gifts.

Not sure whether to write a new Will or add a Codicil? While Codicils can make small changes, they come with risks — they can get lost, misunderstood, or mistaken for invalid amendments. At Toucan Law, we usually recommend writing a new Will. It’s clearer, safer, and avoids confusion later. Changes like family fallouts, new partners, or tax changes are best handled with a fresh, professionally drafted Will that reflects your current wishes.

Mirror Wills are simple and flexible, allowing couples to leave everything to each other, then to children—but they can be changed after one partner dies. Mutual Wills are legally binding but too rigid for most families. For couples worried about sideways disinheritance or care fees, a Protective Property Trust in a Mirror Will offers the best of both worlds—protecting your loved ones while giving your partner security and flexibility.

The laws governing Wills haven’t changed since 1837 — the year Queen Victoria took the throne. While we’ve embraced smartphones and digital lives, Will-making is still stuck in the past. But change is coming. The Law Commission’s 2025 proposals aim to modernise this outdated law with electronic Wills, lower age limits, and new protections. It’s a long-overdue update — but getting your Will right still needs expert advice.

Liam Payne died without a Will, meaning his young son Bear will inherit everything under a Bereaved Minor’s Trust — with ex-partner Cheryl Cole likely acting as Trustee. This trust holds the estate until Bear turns 18, when he’ll receive it all outright, regardless of readiness. It’s a stark reminder of why making a Will matters — to control who inherits, when, and how. Don’t leave it to chance — plan properly to protect your loved ones.

If you leave money to someone on benefits, it could jeopardise their entitlement to Universal Credit or other support. Trusts for disabled or vulnerable beneficiaries offer a safe, legal way to protect both the inheritance and their access to means-tested benefits. This blog explains how Trusts work, the risks of direct gifts or informal arrangements, and how to ensure your loved one is properly looked after — now and in the future.

Discover the importance of making a will and how it can safeguard your family's future. Find practical advice on how to make a will in our latest post.

Ensure your children's future if the worst happens with appointing guardians in a will. What will happen to my children if i die?

Inheritance Tax changes are coming in 2026. Learn how to protect your business and legacy with expert planning advice.

An LPA lets those you trust make decisions if you can’t. Don’t wait—secure your future with Toucan Law. Call today!

Inheritance Tax is a voluntary tax—but only if you plan ahead. Let Toucan Law help you protect your estate.

Writing a Will is the greatest gift you can give your family. Plan today with Toucan Law—expert, caring, and stress-free estate planning.

Worried about care home fees? Protect your home & savings legally with Toucan Law. Call today for expert estate planning advice!

Protect your legacy with a Trust and a Will. Secure your assets, minimise tax, and provide for loved ones. Start planning with Toucan Law

Park home owners face unique estate planning challenges. Learn how to protect your legacy with a Will tailored to your needs.

Avoid intestacy horror stories—protect your loved ones with a Will. A small cost now saves stress, heartache, and financial strain later.

Prepare for your digital legacy in 2025. Protect crypto, social media, and online accounts. Plan now to avoid loss and distress later.

Discretionary Trusts offer flexible estate planning, protecting assets and adapting to beneficiaries' needs. Learn how they can work for you