63% of UK Adults Don’t Have a Will – What the Latest Will Writing Statistics Tell Us
Making a Will is something many people know they should do.
However, the latest figures suggest that a large proportion of UK adults still have not taken that step.
According to The National Wills Report 2025, around 37% of UK adults have made a Will. That means approximately 63% have not. The research surveyed more than 2,000 adults across the UK. National Will Register
So, why are so many people still without a Will?
The latest research gives us some interesting clues.
Many People Intend to Make a Will
Although only 37% of adults currently have a Will, the picture is not entirely negative.
The report found that a further 34% of adults plan to write a Will within the next 12 months. According to the report, that could potentially mean millions more people putting their wishes in writing. National Will Register
This shows that many people understand the importance of making a Will.
However, there can be a significant difference between intending to do something and actually getting it done.
For some people, making a Will stays on the list for months or even years.
Why Do People Put Off Making a Will?
There can be many reasons.
Some people feel that they are too young to need one. Others assume that they do not own enough property or savings.
For others, the subject itself can feel uncomfortable.
However, another important barrier is simply not knowing where to start.
The National Wills Report found that one in four people say they do not know how to make a Will. The report suggests that confidence in getting the process right remains an important issue for many people. National Will Register
That finding is particularly interesting.
It suggests that the problem is not always a lack of awareness. People may know that making a Will is important but still feel unsure about what they need to do next.
Why Do People Make a Will?
The same research gives us an insight into what motivates people who do take action.
Around 70% said their main reason for making a Will was to make sure their estate would be distributed according to their wishes. National Will Register
That gets to the heart of what a Will is designed to do.
It gives you the opportunity to set out what you want to happen to your estate after you die.
Depending on your circumstances, a Will can also allow you to choose who should deal with your estate, make arrangements for children and leave particular gifts to people or organisations that matter to you.
Rather than leaving everything to assumption, you can put your wishes in writing.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will?
If someone dies without a valid Will, their estate is dealt with under the intestacy rules.
Those rules decide who is entitled to inherit.
However, the result may not always reflect what the person would have chosen themselves.
This can be particularly important for unmarried couples, because living together does not automatically give a partner the same inheritance rights as a spouse or civil partner.
We have looked at this in more detail in our article about Wills for unmarried couples in Rochdale.
Making a Will Can Be More Straightforward Than You Think
If you are part of the 63% who have not yet made a Will, getting started does not have to be complicated.
You do not need to arrive at an appointment with every decision already made.
At Wills & Wishes Legal, Fiona takes time to understand your circumstances, explain the options clearly and answer your questions.
The aim is to help you make informed decisions without feeling rushed or pressured.
Home appointments are available across Rochdale and the surrounding areas, alongside telephone and video consultations.
This means you can discuss your wishes in the way that feels most comfortable for you.
Already Have a Will?
Having a Will in place is an important step, but it is also worth checking that it still reflects your current circumstances.
Family relationships, property, finances and your wishes can all change over time.
If your Will was made several years ago, you may find our guide useful:
Will Writing in Rochdale
Wills & Wishes Legal provides friendly, professional Will Writing in Rochdale and the surrounding areas.
Fiona has more than 25 years’ experience in the legal profession and offers a clear, personal approach to planning ahead.
Home appointments are available across Rochdale and surrounding areas including Norden, Bamford, Littleborough, Heywood, Castleton, Milnrow, Shawclough and Newhey. Wills & Wishes Legal Limited
If you would like to learn more about making or updating your Will, visit our main Will Writing page.
Have You Made Yours?
The latest statistics show that making a Will remains something millions of people have yet to do.
Perhaps more importantly, they show that many people intend to make one but have not yet taken the first step.
If making your Will has been on your list for a while, we are here to make the process clear and straightforward.
Speak to Fiona at Wills & Wishes Legal.
Call 07799 213721 to arrange an initial conversation or home appointment.
Make your wishes legal.
This article provides general information about Wills and estate planning in England and Wales. Individual circumstances may require specific advice.