Many people believe that writing a will is something to think about later in life — but the truth is, it’s never too early to plan ahead.
At Coastal Legacy, we help people of all ages across Hampshire, Gosport, Fareham, and Portsmouth prepare wills that give them peace of mind, no matter what stage of life they’re in.
Here’s how to know when the time is right for you.
Early Adulthood: Laying the Foundations
As soon as you begin to build a life of your own — working, saving, or renting a home — you start to create an estate. Even if it feels small, having a will ensures that your possessions and savings go to the people you choose.
It’s also a good time to appoint an executor (someone you trust to carry out your wishes) and start thinking about what’s important to you financially and personally.
Starting a Family
When you become a parent, a will becomes essential. It’s not just about money or property — it’s about guardianship.
By naming guardians in your will, you ensure that your children would be cared for by the people you choose if anything were to happen to you. This decision gives families incredible peace of mind.
Buying a Home
Purchasing a property is often one of the biggest financial steps in life. Your home will likely become the largest part of your estate, so it’s important to make sure it’s properly accounted for in your will.
A will can help ensure your home is passed to your partner, children, or other loved ones exactly as you wish — avoiding unnecessary delays or disputes.
Marriage or Civil Partnership
Getting married or entering a civil partnership automatically cancels any previous will unless it was written in contemplation of marriage.
If you’ve recently tied the knot, it’s vital to create a new will to reflect your current relationship and ensure your estate is protected for your spouse or partner.
Divorce or Separation
Major changes in relationships are also a key time to review your will.
If you separate or divorce, your old will may no longer reflect your wishes. Updating it helps make sure that your estate is distributed fairly and that only the people you still want to benefit are included.
Later in Life: Protecting Your Legacy
As you approach retirement or begin to think about inheritance, a professionally written will becomes a vital part of your legacy planning.
It ensures your estate is distributed efficiently, reduces potential tax burdens, and provides clarity for your family.
You can also use your will to make meaningful gifts or donations to charities close to your heart — leaving behind a positive impact for generations to come.
It’s Never Too Early, but It Can Be Too Late
No one knows what the future holds. Having a will in place isn’t about expecting the worst — it’s about taking care of those you love, whatever happens.
Even a simple will, reviewed every few years, can make a world of difference for your peace of mind and your family’s security.
Start Today with Coastal Legacy
Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for retirement, Coastal Legacy can help you write a will that’s tailored to your life and values.
Our friendly Hampshire-based team makes the process straightforward and reassuring from start to finish.
👉 Contact Coastal Legacy today to create or update your will with confidence.