Can You Change Your Will After It’s Been Signed?

Yes — absolutely.

You can change your Will at any time, provided you have the mental capacity to do so. In fact, reviewing and updating your Will regularly is just as important as making one in the first place.

At Newlife Wills, we often help clients update Wills that no longer reflect their current wishes or circumstances.

How Can a Will Be Changed?

There are two main ways to change a Will:

1. Making a New Will

This is the most common and safest option. A new Will:

• Replaces any previous Wills

• Ensures all changes work together clearly

• Reduces the risk of confusion or disputes

  
  

When a new Will is signed correctly, all earlier Wills are automatically revoked.

2. Using a Codicil

A codicil is a legal document that amends part of an existing Will. It may be suitable for minor changes, such as:

• Changing an executor

• Updating a gift amount

• Adding or removing a beneficiary

  
  

However, codicils must be worded and signed correctly, and multiple codicils can sometimes cause confusion. For significant changes, a new Will is usually recommended.

When Should You Review Your Will?

You should consider reviewing your Will if you have:

• Got married or divorced

• Had children or grandchildren

• Bought or sold property

• Experienced changes in finances or health

• Lost someone named in your Will

• Changed your wishes

  
  

💡 Important: Marriage automatically revokes a Will (unless it was made in contemplation of that marriage), so it’s vital to update it afterwards.

What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Will?

An outdated Will can:

• Leave assets to the wrong people

• Fail to protect children or vulnerable beneficiaries

• Cause delays, disputes, or extra costs

• Create stress for your loved ones

  
  

Keeping your Will up to date ensures your wishes are clear and legally effective.

How Often Should a Will Be Reviewed?

We generally recommend reviewing your Will:

• Every 3–5 years, or

• Whenever there is a major life change

  
  

Even small updates in law or family circumstances can have a big impact.

How We Can Help

At Newlife Wills, we make updating your Will simple and stress-free. We’ll:

• Review your existing Will

• Explain your options clearly

• Ensure everything is legally correct

• Store your Will securely for the future

  
  

Ready to Review Your Will?

If you’re unsure whether your Will still reflects your wishes, now is the perfect time to check.

📞 Contact Newlife Wills today to book a free initial consultation and make sure your Will still does exactly what you want it to do - 01843 269165 / rob@newlifewills.co.uk