🎁 Leaving Gifts in Your Will: How to Do It Right
Leaving gifts in your Will — also known as bequests — is a powerful way to provide for loved ones, friends, and even charities after you pass away. Whether it’s a treasured item, a specific amount of money, or a share of your estate, planning these gifts correctly ensures they’re received exactly as you intended.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of gifts you can include in your Will, how to word them clearly, and how to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to confusion or disputes.
Making your wishes legally binding gives peace of mind to both you and your beneficiaries — and ensures your legacy is protected.
📦 Types of Gifts You Can Leave in a Will
- 💸 Pecuniary Gifts: A fixed sum of money (e.g. £1,000 to your niece).
- 🎁 Specific Gifts: An individual item like jewellery, artwork, or a car.
- 🏠 Property Gifts: Leaving a particular home, flat, or piece of land to someone.
- 📊 Residuary Gifts: A share or percentage of what remains after debts, fees, and other gifts are dealt with.
- ❤️ Charitable Gifts: Donations to a registered charity, which can also reduce inheritance tax.
You can include as many gifts as you like, but it’s vital to be clear and specific to avoid disputes. If someone is left out or unclear wording causes doubt, it could result in legal challenges.
✍️ Tips for Writing Clear Gift Instructions
- ✔️ Use full names and relationships (e.g., “to my sister, Jane Smith”).
- ✔️ Be specific — describe the item or amount clearly.
- ✔️ State what happens if the person you name has died (a substitute beneficiary).
- ✔️ Keep your Will updated as your assets or relationships change.
- ✔️ Use a professional service to make sure the legal wording is correct.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions – Gifts in Wills
Can I leave gifts to friends or non-family members?
Yes, anyone can be a beneficiary in your Will — friends, carers, godchildren, or neighbours.
Will gifts affect inheritance tax?
Some gifts, especially to charities, can reduce the taxable value of your estate. Others may be subject to inheritance tax depending on size and timing.
What if the item I leave is no longer available?
If a gift no longer exists, it usually fails (called ademption). It’s important to keep your Will updated as things change.
Can I change my mind later?
Yes, you can change or remove gifts by updating your Will at any time. Just ensure it’s signed and witnessed properly.
Should I tell people I’ve left them a gift?
It’s up to you. Some people choose to let beneficiaries know, others keep it private until after death. Either way, keep your Will in a secure place and let someone know where to find it.
Start your legally binding Will online today. Our experts will help you include clear instructions for gifts, beneficiaries, and more — all for just £59.
Still unsure? Our team is here to answer any questions and guide you through every step.