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Care & Will Planning2 min check
Later-Life Planning Checklist
Step 1 of 10%
How it works
The checklist scores your current preparedness across legal, financial and personal categories, then prioritises gaps by impact and cost. LPAs and a current will are top priorities — both are inexpensive and prevent serious problems.
Worked example
A 65-year-old with a will from 1995 and no LPAs scores 30%. Priority list: register both LPAs (~£164 total), update will (£200–£500), nominate pension beneficiaries (free), then write funeral wishes.
Who should use this
- •Adults aged 50+
- •Anyone with children, a partner or significant assets
- •People with parents in their 70s+ (used as a conversation starter)
- •Recently widowed or divorced people
Common mistakes
- ×Assuming a spouse automatically inherits everything (only true with a will)
- ×Doing only the Property LPA and not the Health one
- ×Outdated wills naming ex-spouses or deceased people
- ×Forgetting digital accounts — locked phones lock out everything
Frequently asked questions
Can I write my own will?▾
Yes but mistakes are common. Use a STEP-qualified solicitor for anything beyond a simple estate.
Do LPAs need a solicitor?▾
No — DIY via gov.uk costs £82 each. Solicitors charge £200–£500 each but check capacity and wording.
When does a will become invalid?▾
On marriage (unless made in contemplation of marriage). Divorce removes the ex-spouse but doesn't void the rest.