Online will writing services have become increasingly common in recent years. While they are often advertised as a quick and inexpensive way to create a will, it is important to understand the risks they may also present.
Many companies promise a legally binding will in minutes, often at very low cost or even for free. For people looking for convenience, or to save money on making a will, these online services can certainly seem like an easy solution.
However, while online wills can work in limited circumstances, they also carry risks that are not always obvious at the outset. It is these risks that can greatly outweigh what is initially perceived as a convenient and cost-effective option.
A will is not simply a form to complete or a document to download. It is a legal instrument that must operate correctly at a highly sensitive moment, often many years after it has been created, when the person who made it is no longer able to clarify their intentions.
Unlike many everyday online purchases, mistakes in a will are rarely discovered immediately. Problems often only come to light after death, when families are already dealing with grief and practical pressures. At that stage, correcting errors can be difficult, expensive, and in some cases impossible.
Understanding the limitations of online will writing is therefore an important first step in deciding whether this approach is appropriate for your circumstances, and our Wills, Trusts and Probate solicitors have put together the following blog to help you make an informed decision.
Are online wills legal in the UK?
Yes, online wills can be legal in the UK, provided they meet the same legal requirements as any other will.
However, some of the most common problems arise from incorrect execution. A will must be properly drafted, signed, and witnessed according to strict formal rules. The fact that a document is generated online does not automatically make it valid – if signing or witnessing is carried out improperly, the will may be invalid.
Why online will writing services are becoming increasingly popular
Online will writing appeals for several understandable reasons. It can feel easier to complete a form at home than to arrange an appointment with a solicitor and for many people, the attraction lies in speed and simplicity.
Cost is another significant factor. Many providers advertise low fixed fees, and some even promote free online will writing services. This can make professional advice seem unnecessary at first glance, particularly if your affairs appear uncomplicated.
There is also a sense of privacy and control. Understandably, completing an online questionnaire without discussing personal matters face-to-face may feel more comfortable for some individuals.
For someone with very straightforward circumstances and minimal assets, an online will may offer a temporary solution. However, what makes these services attractive is also what creates the risk. The emphasis on simplicity leaves limited opportunity to explore the details of your personal situation, and that is where an online will can fall down, and also where a solicitor adds irreplaceable value.
The risks of writing a will online
Standard templates cannot account for individual circumstances. Our experienced will-writing solicitors regularly advise clients whose situations require careful consideration. These situations include blended families, unmarried couples, business ownership, overseas property, valuable beneficiaries, and inheritance tax considerations.
As you can imagine, no online questionnaire could possibly ask the questions required to explore family dynamics, long-term intentions, or potential future disputes. Only a conversation with a qualified professional could result in truly tailored legal advice.
If you are weighing up whether professional advice is necessary, you may also wish to read our blog on whether you need a solicitor to write a will.
Can mistakes make an online will invalid?
Yes. Even small procedural errors can invalidate the document entirely. If certain formalities are not followed precisely, the will may fail and your estate may pass under the intestacy rules rather than according to your wishes. That is arguably one of the most significant risks when making a will online.
Online wills vs solicitor drafted wills
Free online wills may be suitable in very limited circumstances, for example if you are young, have minimal assets, no dependants, and straightforward wishes. But as soon as circumstances become more complex, professional advice becomes increasingly valuable.
A solicitor is regulated, insured, and professionally accountable for the advice they provide. This means there is a clear regulatory framework, insurance protection, and a formal complaints process in place if something goes wrong. They also consider wider estate planning issues, including tax planning, asset protection, and potential future disputes, helping ensure your will works as intended when it is needed most.
A will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever create. While online services offer convenience, they cannot replace tailored legal advice where complexity exists.
If you would like further practical guidance before deciding which route to take, please do reach out to our wills, trusts and probate solicitors.
