3 vital yet easily overlooked instructions you may wish to include in your will

You’re likely aware of the importance of writing a will. After all, it’s the best way to make sure your estate is passed on according to your wishes.

As well as your savings, investments, and property, though, there are lots of vital instructions you can include in your will that many people overlook. By forgetting to mention these details, you could inadvertently cause additional stress for your loved ones when the time comes.

Read on to discover three easily overlooked instructions that you may wish to include in your will if you haven’t already, and why they are so important.

1. Who you would like to look after your pets

A pet can be a cherished member of your family, which is why it’s vital to have a clear understanding of who will take care of them if they outlive you.

Taking on a pet is a big responsibility, so this is not a decision to take lightly. When choosing who to ask, it’s important to consider whether this person has the time and resources to offer your pet a suitable home.

Make sure you leave clear instructions about any specific care needs your pet has, such as medications or behavioural quirks. It could also be helpful to discuss your wishes with this person sooner rather than later, so that they are aware of the responsibilities they could be taking on.

It may feel strange documenting this in your will, but knowing that your pet will be taken care of when you’re gone can provide valuable peace of mind.  

2. How your loved ones should manage your digital assets

Our online lives are becoming more complex with each passing year. In fact, NordPass discovered in a recent survey that the average person has 168 different online passwords.

So, you can imagine how challenging it could be for your loved ones to access your online accounts and assets after you pass away if you haven’t left any instructions for them. It’s not just online banking that they might need to access to carry out your wishes. Other important accounts include:

• Store cards

• Credit cards

• Email accounts

• Social media accounts

• Utility company logins

• Your photo and file storage

• Music platforms, such as Spotify

• Subscriptions that need to be cancelled.

Without clear instructions about how to you would like your accounts to be managed after your death, your loved ones may face lengthy delays carrying out your wishes after you pass away.

Some accounts, such as Google, allow you to provide contact details for someone who will be contacted if your account is inactive for a specified period of time. This is one way that you can ensure your executor can access your accounts.

If any accounts you own don’t allow this, it’s important to contact the provider to understand their policy on estate planning. They may be able to grant permission for you to pass your account or digital asset to a beneficiary after your death.

3. What you would like to do with sentimental items

Over the years, some of your possessions may have taken on great sentimental value. Perhaps they remind you of a special time in your life, or maybe they played a particular part in treasured family traditions.

Even if they don’t hold much financial value, it’s still worth considering including these items in your will. It may be tricky for your loved ones to decide how you’d like the items cared for after you’re gone. In the worst-case scenario, deciding who will take care of them could create tension between family members.

You can relieve these potential issues by leaving clear instructions in your will about who you’d like to leave these items to. It may also be helpful to have a conversation with your family, if this feels appropriate, so that they are aware of your wishes.

Get in touch

Our friendly team of financial advisers based in Towcester can help you create an estate plan that offers peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Email theteam@fortitudefp.co.uk or call us on 01327 354321 to find out more.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning or will writing.