One of the biggest fears of any parent is that they die leaving young children. Of course, we all want to leave our children what we can in financial terms, but if they are under 18 then they will also need a guardian to look after them.
It is sometimes assumed, wrongly, that a stepparent or grandparent will assume responsibility, but this is only guaranteed if you have left directions in your Will and you have not remarried since. Otherwise, the State will decide who becomes the legal guardian of your children in the event of your death and this could end up with them going into state care.
Having a valid will allows parents to set out who will be granted guardianship in the event of their death and it can make financial provision both in the short term and long term so that your children are properly looked after and given the best start possible without their parents support.
It is worth knowing that without a Will, siblings might be separated due to circumstances or legal procedure, especially where they have different parents from your former marriages. Furthermore, if you are leaving wealth behind, you might want to make provision for a trust for the benefit of your children rather than leaving them a large inheritance on their 18th birthday!
Making a Will is absolutely critical if you have young children or wealth to leave to children of any age. The more complicated your personal and financial life, the more important such a document becomes.
For more information see our Wills and Estate Planning page or speak to an adviser on 01628 507477.
Download our Free First Time Buyers Guide
Recent posts
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has shared new changes to mortgage rules with the aim to simplify remortgaging, and encourage competition within the mortgage market.
Lloyds boost lending for first-time buyers
5 days ago
Lloyds Banking Group has jumped on the bandwagon to boost lending for first-time buyers as they allocate an additional £4 billion to help first-time buyers on to the property ladder.
As the Loan to Income (LTI) cap has been increased to 5.5 times income, applicants who fit the First Time Buyer Boost criteria could borrow up to 22% more.
The government is introducing mortgage reforms to boost homeownership, stimulate economic growth, and make the housing market more accessible, especially for first-time buyers.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced the most significant mortgage reforms in over a decade—great news for those dreaming of homeownership.
Nationwide ease their ‘Helping Hand’ mortgage designed to help first-time buyers get onto the property ladder by allowing them to borrow up to six times their income.
Ways to save money over the summer holiday
14 days ago
Keeping the kids entertained over the six-week summer holidays isn’t always easy, especially with the cost-of-living making it even more difficult. Below is a list of fun, inexpensive ideas to do over the break
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has published a discussion paper about the future of the mortgage market in a bid to improve access for first -time buyers, self-employed, and those borrowing in retirement.
Ever wondered where the most reasonably-priced towns for families to buy are? Property company, Zoopla has identified the top 10 towns for families to live in the UK by looking at the most affordable towns, and how many people are looking in that area.
Increase in zero-deposit mortgages in 2024
18 Jun 2025
There was a 32% increase last year in 100% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages which are mortgages that require zero deposit. According to a recent report by chartered accountants and business advisers, Lubbock Fine, the reason behind this is buyers simply struggling to save enough for a deposit.
More information
Trusted by
