Free will writing schemes
Last reviewed 18 August 2026
A properly made will need not cost anything at all, for a number of charities and schemes will cover a solicitor’s fee — provided your affairs are simple and you know where to look.
The main free routes
Free Wills Month runs each spring and autumn (March and October) for people aged 55 or over, offering a simple will written or updated free by participating solicitors, funded by charities, in selected areas. Will Aid runs each November, is open to any age, and asks for a voluntary donation split between UK charities in place of the fee. The National Free Wills Network connects charity supporters with solicitors year-round, and many charities (Macmillan, GOSH and others) run their own free schemes for adults 18+.
Other ways to pay nothing
Check whether your employer or trade union offers will-writing as a benefit, or whether your home or car insurance legal cover includes a simple will — both are common and often overlooked. All these schemes cover simple wills; if your estate is complex or over the tax threshold, you will normally pay for the extra work. There is no obligation to leave a gift to charity, though many choose to.
Questions
How can I get a will written for free?+
Do I have to leave money to charity?+
Sources. Free Wills Month (freewillsmonth.org.uk); Will Aid (willaid.org.uk); National Free Wills Network; participating charities. Confirmed this session (2026 campaign dates: March and October).