It's easier than you might think...

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Here are some straightforward answers to some of the questions you may have about leaving a gift in your Will.

How and why should I make a will? 

Without a Will, your estate will be divided according to the law, which may not be in accordance with your wishes. It is therefore of great importance that you make a Will and equally important that it should be drawn up with the help of a solicitor.

If you need help choosing a solicitor, the Law Society provides an impartial referral service at www.lawsociety.org.uk or on 0870 606 2555.

What kind of gift should I leave?

There are three main types of gifts you may leave in your will. All of three are tax free:

• a share of your estate
• a specific sum of money
• a specific item

A share of your estate (a residuary bequest) is the whole or a percentage of what remains of your estate after all other legacies and expenses have been paid. These gifts are very important to us as they usually maintain their value or increase over time.

A specific sum of money (a pecuniary legacy) is a gift in your will of a set amount. It is likely that this gift may gradually decrease in value over time, because the cost of living is always rising.

A specific item could be something valuable such as antiques, paintings or even property.