What is a Letter of Wishes and Should I Write One?

Should you write a Letter of Wishes?

What is a Letter of Wishes? |

Newlife Wills, Kent

Discover what a Letter of Wishes is, how it works with your Will, and why it can provide clear guidance for your loved ones. Newlife Wills, serving Kent families.

What is a Letter of Wishes?

A Letter of Wishes is a separate document you write alongside your Will. Unlike your Will, it isn’t legally binding but it acts as a guide for your Executors, Trustees, or family, helping them understand your personal wishes in more detail. It’s often handwritten in plain English and kept with your Will so that, when the time comes, your loved ones know exactly what you wanted.

Why Write a Letter of Wishes?

There are many reasons people add a Letter of Wishes to their Will:

• Guidance for Executors - to explain how you’d like your estate handled.

• Personal messages - to leave notes of comfort or explanation for loved ones.

• Funeral wishes - if you’d prefer a certain type of service, music, or ceremony.

• Guardianship advice - to guide guardians about how you’d like children raised (schools, religion, traditions, etc.).

• Dividing personal possessions - e.g. who should receive sentimental items, jewellery, or family heirlooms.

Is It Legally Binding?

No - a Letter of Wishes is not legally enforceable. However, because it accompanies your Will, it carries moral weight and will usually be respected by your Executors and family.

This flexibility is an advantage: unlike a Will, you can update your Letter of Wishes at any time without needing witnesses or legal formalities.

How Do I Write a Letter of Wishes?

There’s no set format, but it should be:

• Handwritten in your own words (clear and simple).

• Dated and signed.

• Kept with your Will (but not attached to it).

• Updated whenever your circumstances or wishes change.

We can give you a template or guidance to make sure it complements your Will correctly.

Should I Write One?

In short - yes, most people benefit from having a Letter of Wishes.

It’s a simple, informal way to provide clarity and reduce family disagreements, especially over personal items or sensitive matters. It can also help ensure your Executors feel confident in the decisions they’re making on your behalf.

A Letter of Wishes isn’t a replacement for a Will, but it’s a powerful companion. It adds a personal voice to your estate planning and can bring comfort to those left behind.

At Newlife Wills, we help families across Thanet, Canterbury, Dover, and the wider Kent area create Wills that reflect not just the legal necessities, but also the personal touches that matter most.

📞 Contact us today to discuss making or updating your Will and we’ll show you how a Letter of Wishes can bring extra peace of mind - 01843 269165