Steps to creating a basic will online

Disclaimer: This is a general guide. Different online will writing platforms may vary.

Creating your own will online is a straightforward and cost-effective way to ensure your wishes are legally recorded. With the help of a trusted online will-writing service such as ours, it’s possible to prepare a legally binding document in the comfort of your own home.

Whether you’re drafting your first will or replacing a previous one, creating a single will or mirror will, this step-by-step guide will take you through the key steps to writing a will online.

For one-to-one advice about will writing, or to start writing your will online today, contact us.

Who is an online will service suitable for?

Online will-writing services are designed for people with relatively straightforward circumstances.

It might be suitable for you if:

• You don’t have complex or large assets, or if you own a business
• You have a clear idea of how you’d like to divide your estate
• You want a fast and affordable option to create a legal document

It suits individuals and couples looking to create a single will or mirror wills, as well as those looking to revise an existing will.

If you have complex needs, such as an international property or a large estate, an online will may not be the best option. Contact a professional will-writer to talk through your options.

Our step-by-step guide to creating a legally valid online will

Step 1: Choose an online will-writing provider

One of the most important things before creating a will online is to choose a reputable provider.

Ask the following questions:

• Are they properly qualified? – Look for signs that the company is regulated or affiliated with respected UK bodies such as The Society of Will Writers. This demonstrates that they are qualified and adhere to high standards. We are full Members of the Society of Will Writers.
• Are the costs clear upfront? – No one likes unexpected charges. Choose a provider that’s upfront about pricing, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Our fees are advertised on the site.
• Can you personalise your will? – Your situation is unique, and your will should reflect that. Whether it’s naming guardians for your children or specifying your funeral wishes, the service should allow you to tailor your will to fit your life as ours do.
• Is there someone to talk to if you need help? – You don’t have to do it all on your own. The best services offer contact with experienced will writers if you get stuck or need a second opinion. You can always call us.
• How do they keep your information safe? You’ll be sharing some very personal details, so ensure the site is safe and that the provider uses secure systems to protect your data as we do.
• What if something changes later on? Life moves fast, and your will might need updating down the line. Check whether the provider makes it easy to make changes in the future.
• What do other people say? It helps to hear from people who’ve been in your shoes. Check reviews on platforms like Google Reviews to see if others have had a positive experience.
• Where is your will kept afterwards? Some services include secure storage so you (and your loved ones) can easily find it when it matters most. Our storage service is optional, but a great choice if you want peace of mind.
• Is there support beyond just the will? Extra services like probate and lasting power of attorney may not seem important now, but they can make things easier for your family later on.

Once you have made a decision, you are ready to make your will online. While online will-writing services differ, they tend to follow a similar structure.

Step 2: Enter your personal details

You will be asked to enter basic details, including your name, date of birth and address.

You might also be asked about:

• Whether you’re married, in a civil partnership, or have a civil partner
• Your children or dependents, if any
• Details of any previous wills you have made

Step 3: Appoint your executors

An executor is the person responsible for making sure your wishes are carried out. You can name more than one executor if you choose.

It’s common to name:

• A trusted family member
• A close friend

Your executors must be over 18, of sound mind, and willing to take on the role. They can also be a beneficiary of the will, but it’s best to avoid asking them to witness your will, as it could invalidate their inheritance.

Step 4: List your beneficiaries

Beneficiaries are the people or organisations who will inherit from your estate.

You can name:

• Family members
• Friends
• Charities or causes

You may wish to leave specific gifts (such as jewellery or heirlooms) or divide your estate as percentages. Always be clear in your wording to avoid confusion or potential claims in probate court.

Step 5: Add guardians for children (if applicable)

If you have children under 18, it’s vital to name guardians in your will. This ensures someone you trust will care for them if you die. You can also include details of any financial arrangements to ensure your children are provided for, either directly or via a trust.

Step 6: Add your funeral wishes

Including your funeral wishes in your will isn’t legally binding, but it provides clear guidance to loved ones at a difficult time.

You might include:

• A clause stating your preference for burial or cremation
• Any specific requests (e.g., music, location)

Step 7: Include any other instructions or clauses

Depending on the service you use, you may be able to include extra instructions, such as:

• How to handle digital assets (like social media or online accounts)
• Instructions for pets
• Special gifts to someone else outside your immediate family

Ensure that everything is phrased clearly to avoid your wishes being misinterpreted.

Step 8: Review and finalise your will

Once you’ve entered all the information and paid the fee, you will be able to download your new will.

Read it carefully and check for:

• Typos or errors
• Any missing executors, beneficiaries or gifts
• Inaccuracies in names or amounts

This is your opportunity to ensure that your will properly reflects your wishes. Some services, such as those offered by MW Legal, provide a free review by professional will-writers; however, this may incur an additional fee on other sites.

Once you are happy, you can print your will ready for signing and witnessing. Some services offer a print and post service.

Step 9: Sign your will

For your will to be a valid legal document, it must be signed and dated in front of two witnesses, who must:

• Be over 18
• Not be beneficiaries, or relatives or partners of beneficiaries

You must all sign and date the same will, in the same way, at the same time. This helps to ensure the will is legally binding.

After it’s signed, your will should be stored in a safe place. You may wish to use a will storage service for extra peace of mind.

What if an online will isn’t right for me?

If your circumstances are more complex or you prefer not to create a will online, MW Legal offers a range of options for making a will. You can book a telephone or video appointment for one-to-one advice, choose our in-person will writing service, or opt for a home visit if you prefer face-to-face support.

Write your online will today

Online will-writing services make it easier and more convenient than ever to create a valid will. By taking your time and following a clear process, you can save time and money while ensuring your loved ones are provided for. If your circumstances change, you can contact a will-writer at a later date to make an official alteration.

Ready to take that first step? Start writing your online will with MW Legal today and protect what matters most.

Frequently asked questions – steps to creating a basic will online