Two wills, one plan

Mirror wills

Two separate wills for a couple, almost identical, usually leaving everything to each other and then to the same people.

Plain English, and nobody will try to sell you anything.

Why couples choose mirror wills.

One conversation, two wills. You plan it together, and the wills match, so nothing contradicts.
Protects an unmarried partner. Without a will, a partner you’re not married to doesn’t inherit. Mirror wills fix that.
Children and guardians agreed. You both name the same guardians and the same people to inherit in the end.
Often cheaper as a pair. Many solicitors and will writers charge less for two matching wills than two separate ones.

Two wills, signed properly, each standing on its own.

Agree the plan together.
Usually everything to each other first, then to your children or others when you’ve both died.
Step 1
Each sign your own will.
Each will needs signing in front of two independent witnesses, like any will in England and Wales.
Step 2
Review it as life changes.
After the first death, the survivor’s will can be changed. Keep both up to date until then.
Step 3

Short answers for England and Wales.

Is a mirror will one will for two people?
No. It’s two separate wills that match. Each of you has your own, and each can be changed on its own.
Can the survivor change their will?
Yes. After the first death, the survivor can change their will however they like, which could mean the plan you agreed isn’t followed.
How can we stop that happening?
Some couples use a trust in their wills, or mutual wills, which are legally binding not to change. Both are more complicated: ask a solicitor.
Do we need to be married?
No. Mirror wills suit any couple. They matter most if you’re not married, because the law doesn’t protect an unmarried partner.
What about a blended family?
If either of you has children from before, mirror wills may not protect them after the first death. A solicitor can suggest ways that do.

Making a valid will

The official rules on writing, witnessing and updating a will: gov.uk/make-will.

Joint life insurance

Planning together? A joint life policy covers two people in one policy.

Ask a real person about wills for couples. Nobody will try to sell you anything.

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