Martin Lewis is drawing attention to an October-only offer that could save people hundreds of pounds: a free will writing service available until the end of the month. The scheme, part of Free Wills Month, is open to those aged 55 and over, giving them just a few days left to take advantage.
Free Wills Month locations and how it works
The money saving expert previously discussed the initiative on ITV's This Morning and has confirmed that many solicitors are "doing it for free" under the scheme this year. Free Wills Month runs twice a year, in October and March, with different locations in the UK participating in each one.
This year, people can claim a free will in: Chester, Cumbria and Lancaster, East Cheshire, Huddersfield, Leeds, Mid and West Wales, North Wales, Preston, Shropshire, Wakefield, Birmingham, Cornwall, Exeter, Leicestershire, Milton Keynes, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Plymouth, and Torquay. Those unsure whether a local solicitor is taking part can check the Free Wills Month website.
Donations and bequests encouraged
Although the service is free, participants are encouraged to make a donation as a thank you. Mr Lewis explained: "They would like you to leave a bequest in your will. That's a donation for the charity when you die, so you don't have to pay it now." He added that solicitors typically suggest leaving about £300 in the will or a small percentage of assets, with the donation going to a range of charities.
The initiative continues into November with Will Aid, a UK-wide charity running throughout the month. Solicitors volunteer their time and waive their usual fees to write a basic will, with clients invited to donate. The suggested donation is £120 for a single basic will or £200 for a pair of basic 'mirror' wills for couples.
Mr Lewis noted: "It is a requested donation, if you can't afford it, you don't need to pay the full amount or anything at all."
