Wills and trusts

Wills - a quick guide

If you want to make sure your loved ones are properly provided for after your death it's essential that you have a legally valid will.

Did you know?

• You are free to change your will as often as you like. A new will revokes any previous will. If you have a major change in your circumstances you might want to think carefully about your will and whether you need to change it.
• When the will is signed the witnesses and the person making the will must be together. No witness, or spouse of a witness, can benefit from the will (in England and Wales).
• Any legacy to a charity is free of Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax.
• You can have up to four executors per will and an executor can benefit from the will.
• Mind can be appointed an executor. As an executor, Mind can help maximise the value of your estate by ensuring it is administered efficiently, thereby reducing costs. And you can be assured that a reputable organisation will be taking care of your affairs after your death.
• When making or updating your will simply provide your solicitor with the following wording: "I APPOINT Mind (The National Association for Mental Health) of 15-19 Broadway, London E15 4BQ, Registered Charity Number 219830, to be the executor and trustee of this my will."

For more information on making a will, see our booklet Find peace of mind. This gives essential information on when to update your will, how to organise your financial affairs, and how to support Mind through your will. It also outlines how to prevent your will being challenged if you experience mental distress.

Further information:

Wills

To order a free copy of Find peace of mind, our step-by-step guide to will making, click here and complete the form.

When making or updating your will, please think about including a gift to Mind. Click here for more information including suggested wording for your solicitor.

Trusts

Click here for information on setting up a trust.

To order a free copy of Making Provision, which explains the types of trusts available and a free copy of our trustee service information pack click here and complete the form.