Many people never make a will because they assume everything will go to their spouse or children - but this isn't always the case. For example, if your children are under 18 you need to think about who will bring them up should you and your partner die together. It's essential you make plans for the money you leave when you die, however large or small the amount may be. To make sure your money goes to the people you choose, you - and your partner if you have one - should both make a will.
How much does making a will cost?
Making a will is quite straightforward. A solicitor can help you draw one up - you can find solicitors' names in the Yellow Pages. The fee for drawing up a will should be quite small - ask a solicitor how much they charge before deciding who to go to.
If you appoint professionals such as a solicitor or bank as your executors, they will charge a fee that will be deducted from your estate. However, the RSPCA is a trust corporation (a special status granted by the Lord Chancellor) and thus able to act as your executor and administer your estate without charging a fee. However, the RSPCA is entitled to recover disbursements - this is the actual expenditure involved (eg funeral costs).
The RSPCA's legacy department has staff fully qualified and experienced in the administration of estates. The RSPCA can also arrange to see to the welfare of any animals that may survive you. If you are interested in this service, please first register with the RSPCA online by clicking here (this should only take a few seconds) before you contact Joanna Curtis on 0300 123 0239, jcurtis@rspca.org.uk or write to: Legacies Department, RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS.
Can I choose which area of the RSPCA's work my legacy will benefit?
You can decide how you want your gift to be used. You can specify whether you wish to benefit the National RSPCA (registered charity number 219099) or one of the local RSPCA Branches. Each RSPCA Branch is an independent charity, if you want to benefit a Branch please contact us for their full name and registered charity number or click here to find details of your local branch.
General information about leaving a legacy - note: to download this document you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader.
You may also be interested to know that your Will can give you peace of mind that any pets you own will go on being loved and cared for after your death. If you have a pet you want to make provision for in your Will, please click here for information on our Home for Life service.
