Three documents, each with a different job. Most adults should have all three.
Says who inherits your money, home and belongings, who looks after your children, and who sorts things out (your executors).
Lets people you choose run your bank accounts, pay bills or sell your home if you can't. It can be used with your permission while you still have capacity.
Lets people you choose make decisions about your care, treatment and where you live, but only if you can't decide for yourself.
We talk about your family, your home and your wishes, and which documents you need.
We introduce you to a specialist will writer who drafts your will and LPAs with you.
A will needs two independent witnesses. LPAs need a certificate provider and are then registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.
Review your will after big life events, like marriage, divorce, a new baby or a house move.
The law decides who inherits. Unmarried partners get nothing automatically, however long you've been together.
Marriage or civil partnership cancels an existing will in England and Wales. You'll need a new one.
The Office of the Public Guardian's fee to register each LPA. Lower incomes may pay half or nothing.
Without an LPA, not even your husband, wife or partner can automatically manage your money or make decisions for you. Joint accounts can be frozen. An LPA is quick to set up while you're well, and it's there if you ever need it.
Married partners and children usually inherit in a set order. Unmarried partners and stepchildren don't inherit automatically, and nobody is named to look after young children. A will puts you in control.
Witnesses mustn't be people who benefit from the will, or their husband, wife or civil partner. If they are, they can lose their gift. Our partner will make sure it's signed correctly.
Leaving your home to your children or grandchildren can unlock the extra residence nil-rate band of up to £175,000. Gifts to a husband, wife, civil partner or charity are usually free of inheritance tax. For bigger estates, see financial planning.
Pop your details in and we'll call you back. The first chat is free, with no obligation.
The legal bit
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
We don't charge a fee for mortgage advice.
Bridging, will writing, equity release and conveyancing are provided through our network of approved business partners.