How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?
Understanding the costs involved in making a will can help you choose the right option for your budget and needs.
The cost of making a will in the UK varies significantly depending on how you choose to do it. From free templates to bespoke solicitor services, there is an option for everyone. According to MoneyHelper UK, having a professional draft your will provides security, while online services offer a more affordable middle ground.
Average Costs of Making a Will
Based on comparisons from Which? and MoneyHelper, here are the typical price ranges you can expect:
- DIY Will Kits: £10 – £30. These are templates you fill in yourself. They are the cheapest but carry the highest risk of errors.
- Online Will Services: £30 – £150. A great balance of affordability and guidance. Many, like Willdone, provide a structured process to ensure you cover all essentials.
- Solicitor-Drafted Wills: £150 – £500+. The most expensive option, but recommended for complex estates, foreign assets, or complicated family structures.
Solicitor vs. Online vs. DIY
When comparing options, Which? notes that while solicitors offer the most protection, online services are increasingly popular for their speed and lower cost. DIY kits are often cited as a common source of invalid wills if not witnessed correctly, so they should be used with caution for anything but the simplest estates.
Tip: Many people find that online wills provide the perfect "goldilocks" solution—more reliable than a DIY kit, but far more affordable than a traditional solicitor.
References
- MoneyHelper UK. "Cost of making a will." moneyhelper.org.uk. https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/family-and-care/death-and-bereavement/cost-of-making-a-will
- Which?. "How to make a will." which.co.uk. https://www.which.co.uk/money/wills-and-probate-passing-on-your-money/wills-how-to-make-a-will-akmty1q2f5g7