Creating a Will is an important step in ensuring your assets are distributed in accordance to your wishes when you die however, many people underestimate the importance of storing their Will securely once it has been completed. Misplacing your Will can lead to complications, disputes and failure to execute your wishes as planned.
Why is it so important?
Your original signed Will is the only legally binding version. Photocopies, scans or digital copies are not legally valid as they do not have your original wet signature on them. Another thing to consider when storing your Will is if your Will is damaged in any way, the courts could declare the Will invalid so it is important to choose somewhere secure and ensure that your executors are advised of the location. Your original Will is your only Will and must be kept safe.
Where can I store my Will?
When choosing somewhere to store your Will, it is important to choose somewhere accessible for your executors as they will need your Will to manage your estate when you have died.
- Keep your Will at home Storing your Will at home with your other important documents doesn’t cost you anything and could provide you with peace of mind. However, there is the potential risk that this could be misplaced, damaged or stolen so it is recommended that your Will is stored in a fireproof safe if possible.
- Lodge your Will with the Probate Service In England and Wales you can deposit your Will with the Probate Service for a fee of £20. This can be taken to any Probate Registry or posted to them and it will be stored at the Principal Probate Registry in London. Your Will can be retrieved at any time during your lifetime by completing a form or your executors can do this once you have died.
- Store your Will with a Will Writer or Solicitor Many Will Writers or Solicitors will store a Will they have prepared for you and in some cases, Wills that were not prepared by themselves; there may be fees to pay however, this will depend on the firm. Some firms may also outsource a storage company so it is best to check with the firm where your Will will be stored.
It is also important to remember, you should never attached any other documents to your Will with a staple or paperclip etc. as they will leave a mark on your Will and can cause queries when your executors are applying for Probate which can be costly and time consuming. If you have any additional wishes to add at a later date, you can store these alongside your Will in an envelope or plastic wallet.
