A free Will can sound like an easy way to start your estate planning. But before accepting one, take a few minutes to read the fine print.
The document itself may cost nothing, but that does not necessarily mean the entire service is free. More importantly, you need to understand what the Will covers, what it excludes and whether it is suitable for your family’s circumstances.
What Does “Free” Actually Include?
Start by asking exactly what you are receiving.
A free offer may cover the preparation of a basic Will but exclude other services. Read the terms carefully to determine whether assistance with completing the document, amendments, professional review, storage or other services are included.
Understanding the scope of the offer can help you avoid unexpected costs later.
Are There Additional Fees?
Look for information about charges that may apply now or in the future.
These could include fees for updating your Will, storing the original document, obtaining additional services or administering your estate after your death.
Remember that the cost of preparing a Will is only one part of the wider estate-administration process.
What Are the Limitations?
A free Will may be designed for relatively straightforward circumstances.
If you have a blended family, minor children, business interests, trusts, significant assets or specific wishes about how your inheritance should be managed, check whether the document can adequately accommodate your circumstances.
A generic template should not be assumed to provide personalised estate-planning advice.
Is the Will Appropriate for South Africa?
If you live in South Africa, make sure the Will is designed for the South African legal environment.
A document created for another country or jurisdiction may not address the formal requirements applicable to a South African Will.
In particular, pay attention to the requirements relating to how the Will must be signed and witnessed.
Who Keeps the Original Will?
Find out what happens to your signed original Will after you complete it.
Will you keep it yourself? Is a custody service offered? Is there an additional fee for storage? Who will be able to access it when you die?
A carefully prepared Will is of little practical value if your family cannot locate the original when it is needed.
What Happens to Your Personal Information?
Preparing an estate plan requires you to provide personal information about your family, assets and wishes.
Before submitting this information online, read the provider’s privacy policy. Understand what information is collected, how it is stored, who may access it and whether it may be used for marketing or shared with third parties.
Are You Agreeing to Additional Services?
Some free Will offers may be connected to other financial, insurance, estate or executor services.
This is not necessarily a problem, but make sure you understand whether accepting the free Will creates any obligations or automatically signs you up for additional services.
What Is Not Included?
Perhaps the most important question is: what aren’t you getting?
A free Will may not include legal advice, individual estate-planning guidance, professional review, amendments or assistance with more complex family circumstances.
Knowing what is excluded allows you to make a genuine comparison between different options.
Free Does Not Always Mean Wrong
There is nothing inherently wrong with a free Will. The important issue is whether it is appropriate, correctly completed and properly executed for your circumstances.
The word “free” should encourage you to investigate the offer, not discourage you from planning.
Read Before You Rely on It
Your Will is an important document because it communicates your wishes to the people responsible for dealing with your estate.
Before accepting a free Will, read the terms and conditions carefully. Understand the costs, limitations, storage arrangements, privacy provisions and services included.
If something is unclear, consider obtaining independent advice before signing.
The cheapest Will is not necessarily the best Will. The right Will is one that properly reflects your wishes and gives your family greater clarity when they need it most.
If you’ve considered our perspective, here’s another interesting topic to explore:
👉 Will Do: Four Things That Stop People From Making a Will (And How to Overcome Them)
