Why making a will is so important
It is really important to make a Will. If you don’t have a Will and you die your money and possessions may not be allocated as you would have wished.
A Will should be in place when carrying out normal Service routine duties, not only considered when deployed on operations.
Whilst a spouse, parents or child can automatically benefit as the Next of Kin (NOK), if an individual dies intestate (without a Will), it is risky to assume a person will benefit from the estate just because they were living together, or in a relationship. If a Service person wishes a partner to benefit from their estate, they must specifically make provision for them in their will.
Types of Will
A Service person can make a Will in one of two ways:
MOD Form 106
The MOD Form 106 (Basic Will Form for Service personnel) provides a template for a basic Will.
Private Will
Alternatively, a Will can be made privately. Personnel who wish to make a Will privately can be directed to The Law Society – Find a Solicitor.
Free Will writing services for Service personnel
Alternatively, a number of Military charities offer advice and can signpost personnel to solicitors who may be able to draw one up for free, through the National Wills Network. These include:
Free Will writing service funded by RBL.
Free Will writing Service from RAFA.
When to review your Will
It is worthwhile reviewing your Will every 5 years and after any major change in your life, e.g.:
- getting separated or divorced
- getting married (this cancels any will you made before)
- having a child
- moving house
- if the executor named in the will dies
