How to Store a Will

Getting a professional to write your will is the first step in ensuring that when you pass away, your belongings and money are distributed in the way you wish. However, creating a valid will is not enough to ensure that this happens; you also need to keep your will up to date and store it in the right place to prevent it from going missing. A lost will can’t be followed and could result in the rules of intestacy applying instead of following your wishes. Here are some tips to ensure your will is found and followed correctly. 

Inform your executor

When creating a will, you will name someone as your executor; they will be the main person in charge of ensuring your will is carried out as you wish. They will need the original copy of your will to prove they are the executor and to organise everything to make sure the will is followed. Tell them in person where you’ve stored your will, and it is also a good idea to write it down and give it to your executor as a letter or electronically as an email. When the time comes, they could forget, and the written-down location might be needed as a reminder. You may have more than one executor of your will; make sure you inform each one the same way, both in person and by writing it down. This will prevent issues and delays in finding the will when it's needed.

Store it with a solicitor

If you use a solicitor to write your will, they can store it for you to keep it safe. This is common practice; the solicitor will have set methods of storage that will keep you safe and secure. If you do use a solicitor, make enquiries about the storage methods and let your executors know what solicitor has your will and at what branch. If the solicitor goes bust, you may need to get the original copy of your will back and pay for another solicitor to keep your will safe. There have been occasions where solicitors have lost the original copy of a will, so although this method is recommended, it's not full-proof.

Avoid bank safety deposit boxes

If you have a safety deposit box at your bank, this might seem like a great place to store your will. However, this is a place you should avoid; your executor won’t be able to access your bank safety deposit box without getting probate. However, to get probate, they will first need a copy of your will. This situation can be tricky for an executor, and it might result in the rules of intestacy applying. When these rules apply, your estate might not be divided up as you wish, and it can result in additional fees for probate tracing services, which will reduce your overall estate. This complication can also be challenging for your executor and make the whole process more difficult and time-consuming.

Store it yourself

Storing the original copy of your will yourself at home is free and a method that many people choose. Having their will in their possession feels safer than storing it somewhere else that they cannot control. If you choose to store your will yourself, you need to keep it in a safe place and in good condition. Make sure you use a folder or something else to protect the will; never staple anything to the will, as this could raise questions about its authenticity. Make sure your executor knows where your will is stored and can access it when needed. A safe box in your house can be an excellent way to prevent it from being damaged in the event of a fire or flood. If you do use a safe box, your executor will need to know how to gain access to the box. 

Will writing service storage

A professional will writing service can store your will for an extra charge, much like the option of a solicitor; this can make things easier for your executors. However, there are no guarantees; make sure you ask what happens if your will is damaged or lost and what they would do if they went out of business. 

There are no full-proof options for storing your will; every option comes with its own risks and costs. Ultimately it is your decision where to store your will; just make sure you let your executor know to avoid issues.