Will writing cost in the UK
A basic single will drafted by a UK solicitor costs £150–£300 plus VAT in 2026. Mirror wills for a couple typically cost £250–£500. Online services such as Farewill and Co-op Legal Services start from £30–£100. Complex wills involving testamentary trusts, business assets or non-UK property usually cost £400–£800 with a solicitor.
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Cost table
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Basic single will — solicitor + VAT | £150–£300 |
Mirror wills (couple) — solicitor + VAT | £250–£500 |
Will with testamentary trust + VAT | £400–£800 |
Online will service (Farewill, etc.) | £30–£100 |
Free wills (Will Aid Nov, Free Wills Month Oct) via charity scheme | — |
Will storage annual fee | £10–£30/yr |
Will review / update | £75–£200 |
Factors affecting cost
- ·Estate complexity — trusts, foreign assets and business interests increase cost.
- ·Whether the will incorporates an Asset Protection Trust or NRB discretionary trust.
- ·Mirror wills are cheaper per person than two separate wills.
- ·Solicitor seniority and whether the firm includes annual reviews.
- ·Whether the firm names itself as executor (often free upfront but costs the estate 1–5% later).
How to reduce costs
- ·Use Will Aid (November) or Free Wills Month (October/March) for a solicitor-drafted will in exchange for a charity donation.
- ·Online wills are valid in England and Wales if properly witnessed and suitable for simple estates.
- ·Avoid 'free' wills where the firm appoints itself executor — probate fees can swallow £5,000+.
- ·Couples should always opt for mirror wills together — it's cheaper and ensures consistency.
- ·Review your will after any major life event (marriage, divorce, child, property purchase).
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to write a will in the UK?▾
£150–£300 with a solicitor, £30–£100 online, or free via Will Aid in November. Complex wills with trusts cost £400–£800.
Are online wills legally valid in the UK?▾
Yes, provided they are signed and witnessed correctly under the Wills Act 1837 (two adult witnesses present at signing). They are suitable for simple estates.
Should couples write mirror wills?▾
Usually yes — mirror wills cost £250–£500 with a solicitor and ensure consistent provision. Each partner has their own document, but they mirror each other's terms.
Does marriage cancel my will?▾
Yes, under English law marriage revokes any existing will unless it was specifically made 'in contemplation of marriage'. Civil partnerships work the same way.
What is a will trust and is it worth the extra cost?▾
A testamentary trust within a will can protect assets for vulnerable beneficiaries, ring-fence inheritance from a beneficiary's divorce, or use the nil-rate band efficiently. Extra cost £150–£400 — usually worthwhile for estates over £325,000.