Charities losing out as they get overlooked in wills

These are difficult times for many in the UK and a simple gesture could make life so much easier for countless thousands.

Leaving a contribution to a charity in a Will is often overlooked by many, but we at Dale & Newbery believe it is something that needs highlighting.

Generally, once or twice a year we highlight the importance of making a Will, as it gives much needed peace of mind to loved ones. But while many think through the ramifications of their estate for their families, they often don’t take action.

Being at the heart of the community here in Staines, we think it is worth mentioning that charities, both on a local and national level, being run on a voluntary basis, are in more need of help than ever.

Making a Will really is one of those things that is easy to do and equally easy not to do, which is the reason that an estimated one-third of people aged over 55 have not done so.

Of course, getting exact figures on the numbers of people who don’t make a Will is impossible and a search on the web gives all manner of facts and figures about this sensitive subject. However, research last year by Canada Life was quite intriguing in that it gave more detail into the thought process of why many don’t get round to making this most important of documents.

The top reason was that many don’t think they have enough wealth to warrant making a Will, whilst assuming everything will be passed automatically to loved ones. An unwillingness to face one’s own mortality, and just putting it off as they think they have plenty of time, all figure as reasons.

Simply, it is one of those things that once you do it, you’ll feel far better and in a time of more complicated family set ups than maybe a few decades ago, failure to do this can be catastrophic for loved ones left behind.

It’s also worth adding, that a respected traditional law practice gives you safeguards that an online will writing service may not. You have a channel of recourse if there is an issue with the Will as we are insured, and solicitors are highly trained and regulated.

There are many tales of online Will writing providers that have disappeared after overseeing poorly constructed Wills not fit for purpose.

If you haven’t made a Will yet we ask you to commit to doing it now and if you wish to contact us, as we have overseen thousands of Wills in Staines and the general region, please do call us.

Also, if you have a Will perhaps it is time to revisit it to see if it’s up to date and also maybe at these economically uncertain times think of a favourite charity and give them a helping hand as part of your legacy.

As we always point out we are here in the heart of the town and our door is always open, so come and see us or arrange an appointment to see how we can help you, your loved ones, and perhaps others in need too.

And don’t forget that leaving your money to Charity reduces Inheritance Tax and if you leave more than 10% of your net estate to Charity, the rate of Inheritance Tax payable is reduced from 40% to 36%.