Wills for blended families

Start with the people you want to support

Write down who is in your family and who relies on you. Include your partner, children, stepchildren and anyone you support with money or care.

Explain your relationships clearly to your adviser. Do not assume a general phrase such as “my children” will always include everyone you mean.

Without a will, the inheritance rules may leave someone out. In England and Wales, an unmarried partner does not automatically inherit under those rules. Stepchildren who have not been legally adopted also do not inherit as your children under these rules.

Matching wills may not protect the final outcome

Mirror wills are two separate wills with similar wishes. Each person can normally change their own later.

For example, you may want your partner to inherit first and your children to inherit after them. If your partner receives the assets outright, they may later change their will or use the assets. Your children may not receive what you expected.

This does not mean mirror wills are always unsuitable. It means you should understand what they do and what they cannot guarantee.

Discuss the home and ongoing support

Tell the solicitor if you want someone to stay in the home but want others to inherit it later. Explain who owns the property and whether there is a mortgage.

A trust may be one option. This is an arrangement where people manage money or property for others. It brings duties, possible costs and sometimes tax issues. Ask for a plain explanation before agreeing to one.

There is no single arrangement that works for every family. Avoid promises that a trust will always prevent disputes, tax or care charges.

Take clear questions to a solicitor

• What support should my partner have after my death?
• What do I want each child or stepchild to receive?
• Could those aims conflict if the home must be sold?
• Who could manage any trust fairly?
• What if someone dies before me or later remarries?
• Could someone make a claim against the estate?

Your estate means the money, property and belongings you leave. A solicitor can explain which assets your will can control and help record your wishes.

These planning points concern England and Wales. Mention any overseas link or other UK nation when seeking help. Keep your plan under review as your family changes.