Is It Worth Creating a Will Online? Pros and Cons

Creating a Will is a crucial step in ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. Traditionally, Wills were drafted by solicitors, but with the rise of digital tools, many people are now opting for online Will creation services. But is it worth creating a Will online? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of online Will creation to help you decide whether this option is right for you.

Why Is Creating a Will Important?

Before diving into the pros and cons of creating a Will online, let’s quickly review the importance of having a Will:

Legal Protection: A Will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, avoiding conflicts or uncertainty among your loved ones.
Guardianship of Children: If you have minor children, a Will allows you to designate a guardian to care for them.
Prevents Intestacy: Without a Will, the government decides how your estate will be divided, which may not align with your wishes.

Now that you understand the importance of having a Will, let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of creating one online.

Pros of Creating a Will Online

1. Cost-Effective

One of the most significant benefits of creating a Will online is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional Wills can cost anywhere from £100 to £500 or more when drafted by a solicitor. Online Will services typically charge much less, with many offering Wills starting at just £10 or £20. This makes online Will creation accessible to a broader range of individuals, especially those on a budget.

Example of Cost Comparison:

Service	Price	Typical Time Frame	Additional Features
Online Will	£10 – £100	Less than an hour	Step-by-step guidance, editable
Solicitor Will	£150 – £500+	1 week to 1 month	Legal advice, tailored advice

2. Quick and Convenient

Online Will services are designed for ease of use, allowing you to create your Will at your own pace. You don’t need to make an appointment with a solicitor or spend time traveling to their office. Most online platforms offer a simple, guided process that can be completed from the comfort of your own home.

Example of Time Comparison:

Service	Time to Complete	Flexibility
Online Will	30 minutes to 1 hour	Available anytime, from anywhere
Solicitor Will	1 – 2 weeks	Limited to office hours and appointments

3. Easy to Update

If your circumstances change, such as the birth of a child or a change in your assets, it’s easy to update your online Will. Most online platforms allow you to log in and make changes to your Will at any time. This is particularly useful if you want to ensure your Will reflects your most current wishes.

4. No Need for Legal Knowledge

Online Will services are designed for people with no legal background. They typically offer step-by-step instructions that guide you through the process of drafting your Will. This makes it easy for anyone to create a legally binding Will, even if they have no legal experience.

5. Available to a Wide Audience

Online Will platforms often cater to individuals in different situations, including those with simple estates, parents of minor children, and individuals in non-traditional family arrangements. This accessibility makes online Will creation a viable option for a wide range of people.

Cons of Creating a Will Online

1. Lack of Personalized Legal Advice

One of the main drawbacks of creating a Will online is the lack of personalized legal advice. While online platforms can guide you through the process, they can’t offer specific legal advice tailored to your unique situation. This means you may miss out on expert advice, especially if you have a complex estate or unique family dynamics.

2. Limited for Complex Estates

Online Will services are typically best suited for people with straightforward estates. If you have a complex estate, multiple properties, or businesses, creating a Will online may not be sufficient. In these cases, it’s often best to consult with a solicitor who can help navigate the complexities of your estate and ensure everything is accounted for.

Example of Complex Estate Needs:

Estate Type	Complexity	Online Will Suitability
Single home and savings	Simple	Suitable for online creation
Multiple properties, trusts, or businesses	Complex, requires personalized advice	Better handled by a solicitor

3. Risk of Mistakes

While online platforms are designed to make the process easier, there is still a risk of making mistakes, especially if you don’t fully understand the legal terminology or implications of your decisions. Errors in your Will could lead to unintended consequences, such as the wrong distribution of assets or the Will being contested in court.

4. Lack of Witnessing Options

For your Will to be legally binding, it must be witnessed by two independent individuals. Online Will platforms may provide guidance on how to witness your Will, but the process of arranging for two witnesses can be cumbersome, particularly if you live alone or don’t have easy access to trusted individuals. Some online services offer postal witnessing options, but this can delay the process.

5. Limited Support for Unique Family Situations

If you have a blended family or other complex familial relationships, online Will services may not offer the support you need. Issues such as the care of stepchildren, shared assets, or complex inheritance arrangements may require the assistance of a solicitor who can draft a Will that accounts for all these nuances.

Is It Worth Creating a Will Online?

The decision to create a Will online depends on your personal circumstances. Here are a few factors to consider:

Straightforward Estate: If you have a simple estate and no complex legal requirements, creating a Will online is a great option. It’s cost-effective, quick, and easy to update.
Complex Estate: If your estate includes multiple properties, a business, or you have specific wishes for your beneficiaries, it may be worth consulting with a solicitor for personalized advice.
Budget Concerns: If cost is a major factor, online Will services offer a much more affordable option than hiring a solicitor.
Legal Expertise: If you feel comfortable creating a Will without legal advice, online services can guide you through the process. However, if you’re unsure or have unique family situations, a solicitor’s expertise can be invaluable.

FAQs About Creating a Will Online

Q: Is an online Will legally binding?

A: Yes, as long as the Will meets the legal requirements of your jurisdiction, such as being signed and witnessed, it is legally binding.

Q: Can I create a Will online if I have a complex estate?

A: While online Will platforms are suitable for simple estates, if you have a complex estate, it’s advisable to consult with a solicitor to ensure all aspects are properly handled.

Q: How do I make sure my online Will is witnessed correctly?

A: Online Will platforms typically provide instructions on how to properly witness your Will. Ensure you follow these instructions carefully to avoid invalidating the document.

Conclusion

Creating a Will online can be an excellent choice for many individuals, particularly those with straightforward estates, a tight budget, and an interest in a quick and easy process. However, for those with complex estates or unique family situations, seeking professional legal advice may be the best course of action. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose the option that best suits your needs.