An introduction to Wills

Produced by a Tolley Trusts and Inheritance Tax expert
Trusts and Inheritance Tax
Guidance

An introduction to Wills

Produced by a Tolley Trusts and Inheritance Tax expert
Trusts and Inheritance Tax
Guidance
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What is a Will?

A Will is a written document in which a person records their wishes that are intended to take effect after their death. These wishes may be set out in more than one document (perhaps dealing with their property in different parts of the world), and thus it is possible to have more than one valid Will. Any changes or additions to a Will may be made by one or more codicils. The Will and its codicils are regarded and interpreted as one document.

The primary purpose of a Will is to provide for the disposal of property after death. It may also be used to express other wishes including the appointment of executors and guardians for minor children, and to give direction for the disposal of the deceased’s remains.

A Will (together with its codicils, if any) takes effect only on death. It cannot confer benefits while the testator is still alive. Also, a Will cannot limit dealing with property during lifetime and, until death, the Will can always

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  • 25 Nov 2025 11:40

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