Firstly, congratulations on taking the crucial step of having your will professionally drafted by one of our trusted advisors at GetWill. It’s a significant decision that offers peace of mind to you and clarity to your loved ones regarding your wishes. Now that you have your will, what’s the next step? Here’s a guide to ensure that your will is legally binding and safely stored.
Witnessing Your Will
One of the most vital stages after getting your will drafted is to have it witnessed. Here are the key points to consider:
- Number of Witnesses: Your will needs to be signed in the presence of two witnesses.
- Who Can Be a Witness?: The witnesses should be individuals who are not beneficiaries in the will. This means they won’t inherit anything from your estate.
- Presence of the Testator and Witnesses: It’s essential that all three of you – you (the testator) and your two witnesses – are present at the same time when the will is signed. Each person must watch the others sign the document.
- Soundness of Mind: Ideally, your witnesses should recognise and attest that you are of sound mind when signing the will. This is a safeguard to ensure that you fully comprehend the decisions you’re making in the will.
Safekeeping of Your Will
Once your will has been correctly witnessed and signed, it’s imperative to store it in a secure place. This ensures that it can be easily located when needed and remains in pristine condition.
- Storing at Home: If you choose to store your will at home, consider investing in a fireproof and waterproof safe.
- Using GetWill’s Services: For added security, you can contact us at GetWill. We offer the service of registering your will with the National Will Register for a nominal fee. This ensures that its whereabouts are always known and can be easily retrieved when the time comes.
Review and Update
Remember, as life changes, so might your wishes. It’s advisable to review your will periodically, especially after significant life events like marriage, the birth of a child, or purchasing a property. You can always contact your GetWill advisor who will be happy to help you make updates to your will.
Thank You for Choosing GetWill
Your decision to draft a will with GetWill is not just an administrative task, but a gesture of care towards your loved ones. We appreciate your trust in our services and are here to support you in any subsequent steps or queries you might have regarding your will.