What should you decide before asking for a quote?

Rough notes are enough. You do not need exact account balances at this stage.

• ✓Who you want to inherit, including a second choice if someone dies before you
• ✓Who could act as executor
• ✓Who you would want to care for any children under 18
• ✓Any particular gifts you want to leave
• ✓The main assets and debts to consider
• ✓Anything that may need personal advice, such as a business, overseas property, a trust, a dependant needing ongoing support or a likely dispute

What should the quote tell you?

Do not compare the headline price alone. Check the complete service and total cost.

• ✓Whether the price is for a single will, mirror wills or another arrangement
• ✓Whether a person checks the information you provide
• ✓What help is available if you become stuck
• ✓How you receive the final document
• ✓What signing guidance is included
• ✓Whether storage, updates, extra copies or VAT cost more
• ✓The cancellation and refund terms
• ✓Who provides the service and how you can contact them

When should you pause for personal advice?

Speaking to a solicitor does not mean something has gone wrong. Personal advice may help if an online form cannot explore an important family, financial or capacity issue.

• ✓You have children from an earlier relationship
• ✓Someone may challenge the will
• ✓You want to leave someone out who might expect to inherit
• ✓Tax, trusts, business or overseas property may be involved
• ✓There are concerns about capacity, understanding or pressure

Choose the guide you need