An out-of-date will can cause far more problems than most people realise. Sometimes, having the wrong will is worse than having none at all.
It May No Longer Reflect Your Life
One of the most common issues is that an old will simply doesn’t match your current circumstances. Relationships change, families grow, and your priorities shift. If your will still names people who are no longer close to you – or does not include those who are now important in your life – it can leave loved ones shocked and hurt by the results.
Many people now choose to set up an LPA online, as it’s often quicker and more straightforward than dealing with paper forms.
Marriage, Divorce, And Second Families
Major life events have legal consequences that many people aren’t aware of. Getting married can cancel out an existing will unless it was written in anticipation of that marriage. Divorce doesn’t always remove an ex-partner from your will automatically, which means they could still benefit unless changes are made. An LPA online can also make it easier to review or amend your arrangements if your circumstances change.
Second marriages make things more complicated, too. Without careful planning, assets meant for children from a first marriage may pass entirely to a new spouse, or vice versa.
Your Assets May Have Changed
Property purchases, investments, pensions, and jointly owned assets can all affect how your estate is distributed. An older will might not account for newer assets you now own, or it may include items that no longer exist. This can delay the process.
