Create a legally valid last will and testament for England and Wales. Appoint executors, leave specific gifts, distribute your residuary estate, name guardians for minor children, and meet the Wills Act 1837 witness requirements — all in one free template.
A simple will — formally known as a last will and testament — is a legal document that sets out how you want your estate to be distributed after your death. It allows you to appoint executors to manage your affairs, leave specific gifts to named individuals or charities, and nominate guardians for any children under 18.
In England and Wales, wills are governed by the Wills Act 1837. To be legally valid, a will must be made in writing, signed by the testator (the person making the will), and witnessed by two independent witnesses who are both present at the time of signing. The testator must be at least 18 years old and have testamentary capacity — meaning they understand what they are doing and the effect it will have.
If you die without a valid will (known as dying "intestate"), your estate will be distributed according to the intestacy rules under the Administration of Estates Act 1925. These rules follow a rigid hierarchy that may not reflect your wishes. Unmarried partners, stepchildren, and close friends receive nothing under intestacy regardless of the relationship. Making a will is the only way to ensure your estate goes where you intend.
Doxuno's simple will template includes every essential clause needed for a legally valid will in England and Wales. Each section is guided by clear prompts so you can complete the document confidently.
Making a will does not have to be complicated. Our template walks you through each section with clear prompts and a live preview so you can see exactly how your finished document will look. Follow these five steps to create a valid will.
Understanding the legal framework around wills in England and Wales helps ensure your document is valid and your wishes are carried out. Below are the key points to be aware of when creating your simple will.
Important: This template is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For complex estates or family situations, consult a qualified solicitor in England and Wales.
Reviewed by legal professionals. The content on this page and the template clauses have been reviewed by licensed solicitors in England and Wales to ensure accuracy and legal soundness for standard will-making scenarios.
The Wills Act 1837 sets out the formal requirements for a valid will in England and Wales. The will must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by another person in the testator's presence and at their direction), and the signature must be made or acknowledged in the presence of two witnesses who are both present at the same time. Each witness must then sign the will in the presence of the testator. Failure to meet these requirements renders the will invalid.
The testator must have testamentary capacity at the time of making the will. The legal test comes from the case of Banks v Goodfellow (1870) and requires that the testator understands the nature of making a will and its effects, has a general awareness of the extent of their estate, comprehends the claims of those who might reasonably expect to benefit, and is not suffering from any disorder of the mind that influences their decisions. If capacity is in doubt, a medical assessment at the time of signing can provide valuable evidence.
A will can be challenged if it was made under undue influence — where someone pressured or coerced the testator into making provisions they would not otherwise have made. To reduce the risk of such a challenge, ensure the will reflects your genuine wishes, consider having it prepared or reviewed independently, and sign it in a calm environment free from pressure by any potential beneficiary.
Inheritance Tax is charged at 40% on the value of an estate above the nil-rate band, currently set at £325,000. An additional residence nil-rate band of up to £175,000 may apply when a home is passed to direct descendants such as children or grandchildren. Gifts to a spouse, civil partner, or qualifying charity are exempt from IHT. If your estate is likely to exceed these thresholds, consider seeking professional tax advice when drafting your will to minimise the tax burden on your beneficiaries.
Create a legally valid simple will in minutes. Our template covers everything you need — executors, gifts, guardianship, and witness requirements — all compliant with the Wills Act 1837.
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