Writing your will

Relax knowing you’ve made a clear plan. 

 

The Halifax brand is changing to Lloyds

This service is no longer available through Halifax. For help writing a will, head over to Lloyds.

More on the change

 
man with child reading

We can help you understand:

  • how a will works
  • why a will is important 
  • what could happen if you don’t have a will
  • the commonly asked questions.

How does a will work?

Writing a will can feel daunting. But we’re here to help every step of the way.

Your will sets out exactly how you want your assets to be distributed - and on what terms.

It gives you peace of mind too, as you’ll know your wishes will be carried out.

Why a will is important

A will is more than just a document. It’s a way to:

  • make sure your wishes are carried out
  • benefit your loved ones, friends and charities
  • minimise legal complications and disputes 
  • appoint guardians for your children 
  • appoint an executor to deal with your estate.

Good to know

If you don’t have a will

If you die without having a will in place, the laws of intestacy will govern your estate. So, the distribution of your assets will be based on strict legal rules.

If your circumstances have recently changed, for example you have had children, have received an inheritance or divorced, it is time to review and possibly update your will. You should also make sure to review and update your will if you are planning to get married or have recently married.

Appointing us as your executor

You need to appoint at least one executor in your will to deal with your estate after you die.

We offer professional executor services through Lloyds. Halifax is part of Lloyds Banking Group. As a customer of Halifax you have the option to appoint Lloyds as an executor of your will.

If you choose Lloyds, they’ll handle all financial and legal matters with expertise, impartiality and care.

Lloyds executor services

Let’s take a closer look

  • You need to be aged 18 or over in England and Wales or aged 16 or over in Scotland to use this service.

    You also need to have the mental capacity to understand the implications of your decisions.

  • A will is a legal document that lets you lay out who you want to receive your assets or take care of any children after you die. If you die without one, the law will decide what happens instead. This is called dying intestate.

  • You should review your will regularly, especially after big life events – like marriage, divorce or the birth of a child. For any minor changes, you may be able to update your will using a codicil. This is a separate legal document that changes the terms of your existing will.

    If not, you’ll need a new one.

  • Make sure to keep it safe and tell your executors where it is. With our service, Hugh James will store your will for free, sending you a copy to keep at home.

  • You should still have a will, no matter how big or small your estate. It guarantees that your assets are distributed exactly how you want, like money, personal belongings or sentimental items.

    You’ll also be able to express your funeral wishes and appoint guardians for minor children.

  • An executor is the person you appoint to deal with your estate after you die, carrying out your wishes. For example, a friend, family member or professional.

    Lloyds offers professional executor services. You can appoint Lloyds as your executor if you want to. Fees and charges will apply to your estate after you have gone.

    Lloyds executor service

Additional services

Lloyds estate administration services

Lloyds executor services are offered to our Halifax customers to help manage the estate and affairs of someone who has died.

This can be useful if the appointed executors can't or don't want to manage the probate.

We’re here to support you.

Lloyds estate administration

Power of attorney

Many people create a will and power of attorney at the same time.

This is when you appoint one or more trusted people to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf. This is important if you become unable to, due to illness, an accident or you’ve lost your mental capacity.

Power of attorney service

More support

Someone to manage your affairs

We can help if you want to support someone to manage their accounts or need help looking after your own.

Help with money management

Customers affected by serious illness

Helping you through this difficult time.

Serious illness support

Bereavement support

Supporting you with losing a loved one.

How we can help

Still need help?

Find out more about our products and services as well as how to get in touch with us in our help centre.

Help centre

Still need help?

Find out more about our products and services as well as how to get in touch with us in our help centre.

Help centre