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Steps to add a gift to your Will

If you already have a Will, you can update it to include a gift in a few steps. Most people can complete the process with support from a solicitor or using a Will-Writing-Service.

How to update your Will

You can usually add a gift in 5 steps.

1. Decide whether to update or rewrite your Will

There are two ways to make changes to your Will:

Update your existing Will

This may be an option if you're making a small change, such as adding a gift to Cancer Research UK.

Make a new Will

This may be easier if you'd like to make several changes to your Will.

A solicitor or Will-Writing Service can help you decide which option is best for you.

2. Decide who you'd like to include

This is an opportunity to review the people involved in your plans which could include:

  • family and friends

  • charities or causes that are important to you

  • the person you'd like to deal with your estate and ensure your wishes are carried out (your executor)

3. Decide what you'd like to leave

There are different types of gifts you can leave including:

  • a share of your estate

  • a fixed sum of money

  • a specific item, such as jewellery, property or shares

We'll explain each option and help you decide which is right for you.

4. Get the details and wording you need

Once you've decided what you'd like to leave, you'll need:

  • Cancer Research UK's charity details

  • suggested wording for your Will

You can share this information with your solicitor or Will-Writing Service.

5. Update your Will

Ask your solicitor or Will-Writing Service to add the gift to your Will, you can then:

  • check that you're happy with the update

  • store your Will safely

  • let your executors know where it is

6. Make sure your wishes can be carried out

Now that your Will has been updated, there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure your wishes are followed when the time comes.

This includes:

  • storing your Will safely

  • telling your executors where it can be found

  • reviewing your Will if your circumstances change

  • letting Cancer Research UK know about your gift, if you'd like to

Learn about what to do next

Need help?

If you're unsure about any part of the process, we're here to help.

Our team can answer questions about leaving a gift to Cancer Research UK and help you understand your options.

Get in touch with our advisors

Choose what to do next

Use our Will-Writing Service

Write your Will with a professional, online, by phone or in person, at no cost to you.

Update your Will with a codicil

If you'd like to add a gift to your Will without writing a new one, a codicil could be the right option for you.

Choose the type of gift to leave in your Will

From percentage shares to lump sums, find the right gift option for you.

Get wording to add a gift to your Will

Use our suggested wording to leave a gift to Cancer Research UK in your Will.

Find a solicitor

If you need a solicitor to help write or update your Will, you can browse a list of trusted legal partners to find someone local to you.

Back to the start

If you'd like to begin again, head back to the I have a Will page.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Illustration of a Legacy Relationship Manager.

If you have questions about updating your Will or writing a new one, our friendly team can help.