Quick answer: Yes. The good news is that, in most cases, you can update your will to reflect changes in your family circumstances, finances, or personal wishes.
Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are followed. However, life rarely stands still, and many people wonder whether they can change their will after it has been signed.
In this guide, we explain how to change a will, when you should review it, and why keeping your will up to date is so important.
Can You Change a Will After It Has Been Signed?
Yes.
In England and Wales, you can change your will after it has been signed, provided you still have the mental capacity to understand the decisions you are making.
Updating your will ensures it continues to reflect your current wishes and circumstances.
When Should You Change Your Will?
There are several key life events that should trigger a review of your will.
Marriage or Civil Partnership
Marriage can significantly affect your will and may even revoke it in certain circumstances unless it was made in contemplation of marriage.
Read more:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/what-happens-to-your-will-when-you-get-married-in-the-uk/
Divorce or Separation
Divorce can change how your estate is treated, and it is important to ensure your will reflects your current situation.
Having Children or Dependants
The arrival of children or grandchildren is one of the most common reasons to update a will.
Rather than linking to a potentially missing page, the safest option is to ensure children-related updates are handled within your broader guidance content (see hub below).
Buying a Home or Increasing Assets
If you purchase property or experience a change in financial circumstances, your will should be reviewed to ensure it still reflects your estate.
How Can You Change a Will?
There are two main ways to change a will:
1. Create a New Will
In most cases, the simplest and safest option is to create a completely new will.
This automatically replaces any previous versions.
2. Add a Codicil
A codicil is a legal document used to make small changes to an existing will.
However, multiple codicils can become confusing, so a new will is often preferred.
Can You Make Changes Yourself?
You should avoid making handwritten changes to a will after it has been signed.
Incorrect amendments can:
- Make parts of the will invalid
- Create confusion for executors
- Increase the risk of disputes
You can learn more here:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/what-makes-a-will-invalid-in-the-uk-2026-guide/
Can a Changed Will Be Challenged?
Yes — any will can potentially be challenged if there are legal grounds.
Read more:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/can-a-will-be-challenged-uk/
How Often Should You Review Your Will?
Even if nothing major changes in your life, it is recommended to review your will every 3–5 years.
Regular reviews help ensure:
- Executors are still appropriate
- Beneficiaries are up to date
- Assets are correctly included
- Your wishes are still accurate
A helpful resource:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/when-to-update-your-will-the-essential-life-events-checklist-uk-guide-2025/
Why Keeping Your Will Updated Matters
An outdated will can lead to:
- Assets going to the wrong people
- Family disputes
- Delays in probate
- Unintended legal consequences
Keeping your will up to date ensures clarity and peace of mind for your loved ones.
Make a Legally Valid Will from Just £47
Whether you need to update an existing will or create a new one, Town & Country Law can help.
We provide:
- Professionally drafted wills
- Clear legal guidance
- Fully compliant documentation
- Fixed pricing from just £47
Start here:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/make-a-will-with-town-country-law-a-legally-valid-will-for-just-47/
Final Thoughts
Yes — you can change your will after it has been signed, and it is often essential to do so after major life events.
Marriage, divorce, children, property changes, and financial updates are all strong reasons to review your will.
Keeping your will up to date ensures your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected.