When someone dies without a will in England or Wales, their estate is divided according to "the rules of intestacy". These rules are rigid and often do not reflect the way people actually live their lives. For instance, if you live with a long-term partner but are not married or in a civil partnership, that partner has no automatic entitlement to your estate. Stepchildren also inherit nothing unless you specifically include them in your will.

Between 2025 and 2027, sweeping inheritance tax reforms will affect UK families, farmers, and business owners. From the move to residence-based taxation, to caps on agricultural and business relief, and the inclusion of pension funds in estates, more families risk unexpected tax bills. Now is the time to update wills, trusts, and estate planning to protect your legacy.