"There's no such thing as free money, son. Money is money." – The Hummingbird Project

While free Wills are becoming increasingly available, it's important to remember: there’s always a catch.

Some providers are offering free Wills in exchange for future probate fees or executor rights, a practice we believe devalues the estate planning process for a quick gain. What may seem like a simple solution now could end up costing beneficiaries significantly down the road.

We call this the collection of “estate probate futures” - a strategy that might work in a retail environment but raises concerns for advisers managing the long-term interests of their clients.

It’s crucial that clients carefully read all the terms and conditions attached to these offers. Advisers should encourage their clients to ask questions and ensure they fully understand the implications before signing any "free" Will. What are the consequences for their beneficiaries? Who will serve as the executor? What are the fees involved?

While cheap or free options might appear attractive, we believe true estate planning advice, tailored to the needs of the client, should remain the priority. Quick fixes can lead to long-term costs that your clients and their loved ones should be aware of.