I'm 27 and I've already written my will - here's why
For many young people making a will may not seem necessary, but here's why you shouldn't put it off.
At 27, Erin Atkinson has already drafted her will, a decision that might seem unusual for someone in the early stages of their career. Living in London and renting an apartment, Erin does not consider herself particularly wealthy, though she does have a few assets, such as a £7,000 car and a gold necklace. Yet, she has made provisions for these possessions, designating her car for her sister and the necklace for her partner.
Erin also wishes for a portion of her money to go to an endometriosis charity, a cause close to her heart.
According to the 2025 National Wills Report, many young people overlook the importance of having a will. Only one in five individuals aged 18 to 24 have a will, compared to 33% of those aged 22 to 34, and 56% of those over 55. Sophia Maslin, founder of Morby, an online will creation app, notes that one of the biggest misconceptions is the belief that one must possess significant assets to make a will.
However, she emphasizes that even savings, investments, pensions, social media accounts, pets, and funeral wishes are factors to consider.
Erin's interest in making a will was sparked by a friend's home purchase and her exposure to will-related content on TikTok. Her grandmother's complex will, which caused complications for her family, also influenced her decision. Seeing the clarity and simplicity of her own family's will made Erin realize the potential burden it could have alleviated.
While the process of writing a will may seem daunting and costly, Erin and others can benefit from free or low-cost options. Will Aid, for instance, collaborates with volunteer solicitors who waive their fees for basic wills. Erin advises potential will writers to consider beneficiaries, designate an executor, account for any pets, leave funeral wishes, and ensure the will is kept in a safe location with a trusted individual knowing its whereabouts.
By addressing these aspects, Erin views her will as a means of taking responsibility and easing the burden on her loved ones.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
