A letter of wishes is a note you leave with your will to guide your executors. It is not part of the will, so you can use it for wishes you do not want to be legally binding, and update it without changing your will.
What can a letter of wishes include?
- A list of your assets and where to find the paperwork.
- Who you would like to have personal items that are not named in your will.
- Your wishes about how trustees should use money held for a child.
- An explanation of a difficult decision, such as leaving someone out.
- Your funeral wishes, and people to contact.
How do I write one?
There is no set legal form. Use an ordinary letter layout, typed or handwritten, signed and dated. Keep it clear and up to date.
Never attach it to your will
Do not staple, clip, pin or glue the letter, or anything else, to your will. Leave it alongside the will so that both are found together.
The probate registry looks for marks of attachment. Staple holes or clip marks can suggest a page has been removed, and must be explained to the registrar's satisfaction (Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987, r.15). That can mean extra evidence, and delay for your executors.
Keep it with your will
Tell your executors where your will and letter are kept. See how to store a will safely.