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How to Properly Fill Out a Legal Will Kit Without Mistakes

Author jacksonseo01 Estimated read time 6 min read

Introduction

Creating a will is one of the most important tasks you can complete to ensure your loved ones are cared for and your estate is distributed as you wish. For many people in the UK, a Legal Will Kit provides an affordable and straightforward way to draft a valid document without the high fees charged by solicitors. However, while the process is simple, small errors can make your will invalid or cause confusion later.

This guide explains how to properly fill out a Legal Will Kit without mistakes, covering step-by-step instructions, common pitfalls, and best practices to ensure your will is legally binding and crystal clear.

Why a Will Kit Is a Practical Choice

Before diving into the process, it’s worth highlighting why many people choose a UK Will kit over professional drafting services:

  • Cost-effective – A fraction of solicitor fees.
  • Convenient – Complete at home in your own time.
  • Accessible – Available online or as a Post office Will kit.
  • Simple to use – Clear templates and step-by-step guidance.

That said, accuracy is key—mistakes can lead to disputes, delays, or even your will being rejected.

Preparing to Fill Out Your Will Kit

Proper preparation makes the process smooth and ensures accuracy. Before starting, make sure to:

  • Gather key information – List your assets, debts, and valuables.
  • Identify beneficiaries – Decide who should inherit specific items or shares of your estate.
  • Choose executors – Select trustworthy individuals to carry out your wishes.
  • Consider guardianship – If you have minor children, decide who will care for them.
  • Think about substitutes – Name backups in case a beneficiary or executor is unable to act.

Having this information ready will help you avoid mistakes and ensure clarity in your document.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing a Legal Will Kit

1. Read the Instructions Thoroughly

Every Legal Will Kit includes detailed guidance. Before filling in any sections:

  • Review the entire booklet or online instructions.
  • Familiarise yourself with legal requirements.
  • Note important rules about signing and witnessing.

Skipping this step is a common cause of invalid wills.

2. Enter Personal Information Correctly

Begin by filling in your personal details such as full name, address, and marital status. Use:

  • Full legal names instead of nicknames.
  • Current addresses to avoid confusion.
  • Consistent spelling throughout the document.

Accuracy here ensures your will applies to you beyond doubt.

3. Appoint Executors Carefully

Executors carry out your instructions after you pass away. In the UK Will kit, you’ll be asked to:

  • Appoint at least one executor (preferably two).
  • Name alternates in case your first choices are unable to serve.
  • Choose people who are trustworthy and capable of handling financial matters.

Failing to name alternates is a common mistake that may cause delays.

4. Clearly Identify Beneficiaries

When listing beneficiaries:

  • Use full legal names and relationships (e.g., “my daughter, Sarah Thompson”).
  • Be specific about what each person receives.
  • Avoid vague phrases like “my jewellery” without details.

This prevents disputes and ensures your wishes are carried out.

5. Add Guardianship Provisions (If Applicable)

If you have children under 18, your Legal Will Kit will include space for guardianship:

  • Name your preferred guardians clearly.
  • Include alternates.
  • Provide any instructions regarding upbringing if allowed in the kit.

Without guardianship provisions, the court decides who will care for your children.

6. Include a Residue Clause

A residue clause ensures that any remaining assets not specifically mentioned are still distributed. To avoid mistakes:

  • Ensure the clause names a primary beneficiary.
  • Add alternates in case the primary beneficiary passes away before you.

Without a residue clause, leftover assets may be distributed under intestacy laws.

7. Sign and Date the Will Correctly

One of the most common errors is improper signing. For your will to be valid:

  • Sign it in the presence of two witnesses.
  • Witnesses must be over 18 and not beneficiaries (or their spouses).
  • Both witnesses must sign in your presence.

A mistake here can make your entire will invalid, so follow the kit’s instructions carefully.

8. Store the Will Safely

After completing your Legal Will Kit:

  • Store the original in a secure but accessible location.
  • Inform your executors where it is kept.
  • Consider registering it with the Probate Service’s Will Register.

Do not hide it in a place where it may be lost, destroyed, or forgotten.

9. Review and Update Regularly

Life changes—marriage, divorce, births, or property purchases—may affect your will. To avoid outdated provisions:

  • Review your will every few years.
  • Update it after major life events.
  • Ensure old versions are revoked to prevent confusion.

Most UK Will kits provide guidance on making changes or writing a new will when necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While filling out a Legal Will Kit, avoid these frequent errors:

  • Naming beneficiaries as witnesses.
  • Leaving out full names or clear asset descriptions.
  • Forgetting to appoint alternate executors or guardians.
  • Using ambiguous language that could be misinterpreted.
  • Storing the will in an inaccessible or unsafe place.

By carefully following the instructions, you can avoid these pitfalls.

Post Office Will Kit vs Online Legal Will Kit

When choosing the right kit, you’ll encounter both traditional and digital options:

  • Post office Will kit – A printed version that includes paper templates and instruction booklets. Perfect for those who prefer handwriting their will.
  • Online Legal Will kits – Provide digital templates and guided questionnaires, with some offering professional review options.

Both are legally valid when signed and witnessed correctly—the choice depends on your preference for paper or digital convenience.

Who Benefits Most From a Will Kit?

A UK Will kit is suitable for:

  • Individuals with straightforward estates.
  • Parents who need to name guardians for children.
  • Couples leaving everything to each other or their children.
  • People who want a quick, affordable solution without solicitor fees.

For those with complex estates, tax concerns, or international property, professional legal advice is recommended.

Final Thoughts

Filling out a Legal Will Kit is a practical, affordable way to secure your legacy and protect your family. By carefully following instructions, accurately entering information, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a legally valid will without solicitor fees.

Whether you choose an online Legal Will kit or a Post office Will kit, the key is attention to detail. Proper preparation, clear wording, and correct witnessing will ensure your will stands as a 100% binding legal document.

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