How Often Should You Update Your Will in the UK?

Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones. But creating a will is not a “set it and forget it” task.

As your life changes, your will should change too. Reviewing your will regularly ensures it continues to reflect your wishes and protects the people who matter most.

If you are wondering how often you should update your will in the UK, this guide explains when to review your will and which life events should trigger an update.

Person reviewing their will after major life events in the UK

How Often Should You Update Your Will?

As a general rule, you should review your will:

Every three to five years
After any major life event
If your financial circumstances change significantly
If tax rules or inheritance laws change

Even if you do not make immediate changes, a regular review helps confirm that your will still reflects your wishes.

Major Life Events That Should Trigger a Will Review

Certain events can have a significant impact on your estate planning.

Getting Married

Marriage usually revokes an existing will unless it was made in contemplation of that marriage.

Divorce

Divorce does not invalidate your entire will, but it usually removes your former spouse from it.

Having Children

If you have children, your will should include guardianship arrangements and financial provision for their future.

Buying a House

Purchasing a property is an excellent time to review how your assets will be distributed.

Death of a Beneficiary or Executor

If someone named in your will dies, you may need to appoint replacements and revise your instructions.

Changes in Wealth or Business Interests

Receiving an inheritance, selling a business, or significant financial growth can all affect your estate planning.

What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Will?

If your will is outdated:

Assets may go to the wrong people
Executors may be unable to act
Guardians may not be appointed
Tax planning opportunities may be missed
Family disputes may become more likely

In some cases, your wishes may no longer be carried out as intended.

How Do You Know If Your Will Is Out of Date?

Your will may need updating if:

Your family circumstances have changed
You have moved or acquired property
You have had children or grandchildren
You no longer wish to benefit certain individuals
Your named executors are no longer suitable

If any of these apply, a review is strongly recommended.

Can You Update a Will Without Writing a New One?

Minor changes can sometimes be made using a codicil. However, in many cases, creating a new will is clearer and less likely to cause confusion.

Professional advice can help determine the most appropriate option.

Are Online and DIY Wills Easy to Update?

DIY or online wills may be harder to update correctly and can increase the risk of mistakes.

A professionally drafted will provides greater certainty and helps ensure future changes are handled properly.

Make or Update Your Will from Just £47

Reviewing and updating your will is straightforward with Town & Country Law.

Our service includes:

Legally valid wills from just £47
Fixed pricing with no hidden costs
Expert legal guidance
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Start here:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/make-a-will-with-town-country-law-a-legally-valid-will-for-just-47/

What Should You Include in a Will?

If you are updating your will, it is worth reviewing what should be included.

Helpful guide:
https://townandcountrylaw.legal/what-to-include-in-a-will-your-complete-2025-guide/

Final Thoughts

You should review your will every three to five years and after any significant life event.

Marriage, divorce, having children, and buying property can all affect whether your will still reflects your wishes.

Keeping your will up to date ensures your loved ones are protected and your estate is distributed exactly as you intend