UK Will Writing Cost Calculator
Will writing costs range from free (online templates) to thousands for complex estates. Over half of UK adults haven't made one yet.
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A common mistake is focusing only on upfront price. A cheap DIY will with incorrect witnessing can be challenged or invalidated. Another oversight is not updating your will after major life changes – marriage automatically revokes existing wills.
Understanding will writing options helps you choose the right approach. Compare the different methods below to see typical costs and what each includes.
Will Writing Cost Comparison
Standard will for one person with straightforward assets
Matching wills for partners, typically leaving everything to each other
Trusts, overseas assets, business interests, or blended families
It's recommended to review your will every 5 years or after major life events
What this means for your estate planning
Online and template wills cost £0–£100 and are fine for simple estates (one property, no business interests, straightforward beneficiaries). Solicitor-drafted wills typically run £200–£500 for a single will, or £400–£800 for mirror wills. Specialist trust or tax planning can run into the thousands but often saves multiples of that in IHT.
The hidden cost of a cheap will is one that's challenged or invalidated — incorrect witnessing, ambiguous wording, or failing to update after marriage (which automatically revokes any prior will). A few hundred pounds spent on review every 5 years, or after major life events, is the cheapest insurance you can buy.
Understanding Will Types
Simple vs Complex Wills
A simple will is suitable when you have straightforward wishes: leaving everything to your spouse, then children, with clear beneficiaries and no complicated assets. Most people fall into this category.
A complex will becomes necessary when your situation includes:
- Property or assets held overseas
- Business ownership or partnership interests
- Trusts for children, grandchildren, or vulnerable beneficiaries
- Blended families with children from previous relationships
- Estates likely to exceed the inheritance tax threshold (£325,000 or £500,000 with residence nil-rate band)
- Agricultural or heritage property
Mirror Wills for Couples
Mirror wills are near-identical wills created for couples, typically leaving everything to each other first, then to children. They're cost-effective as most providers offer a discount compared to two separate wills.
Important: Mirror wills are separate legal documents. Either partner can change their will after the other dies without restriction. If you need binding arrangements, a specialist can advise on mutual wills or trusts.
Risks of Using the Wrong Will Type
Choosing the wrong method or oversimplifying your will can lead to serious problems:
- Invalid clauses: DIY and online wills may include provisions that don't work legally, such as poorly drafted trusts
- Inheritance tax exposure: Without proper planning, your estate may pay more tax than necessary. See our Inheritance Tax Calculator
- Ambiguous wording: Vague language can lead to disputes and costly litigation between beneficiaries
- Missed assets: Overseas property or pensions may require specific handling not covered by standard templates
- Execution errors: Improper witnessing invalidates the entire will
When Professional Advice is Essential
Consider a solicitor or specialist estate planner if:
- Your estate is worth over £325,000 (or £500,000 including your home)
- You own property abroad or have overseas assets
- You want to set up trusts for beneficiaries
- You have a disabled beneficiary who receives means-tested benefits
- You're in a second marriage with children from a previous relationship
- You own a business or have agricultural property
- You want to include charitable giving with tax efficiency
The extra cost of professional advice often saves money in the long run by avoiding inheritance tax, preventing disputes, and ensuring your wishes are properly documented.
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