How Mirror Wills Work
Each partner writes an identical (mirroring) Will. When the first partner dies, everything passes to the survivor. When the second partner dies, the estate passes to their children or other named beneficiaries.
Despite being called "mirror" Wills, they are two separate legal documents. Each Will belongs entirely to its maker and can be changed independently at any time.
💡 Example: James and Sarah each write a Mirror Will. James dies first — everything passes to Sarah. Sarah later dies — the estate passes to their two children equally.
Mirror Wills vs Single Wills vs Mutual Wills
| Mirror Wills | Single Will | Mutual Wills | |
|---|---|---|---|
| For couples | ✓ Yes | One person only | ✓ Yes |
| Can be changed? | ✓ Independently | ✓ Anytime | ✗ Binding contract |
| Cost | £99 (both) | £69 each | More complex — bespoke |
| Common use | Most couples | Single people | Blended families |
Pros and Limitations
Advantages
- Simple and affordable — £99 for both
- Easy to understand and explain
- Survivor can update their Will later if circumstances change
- No obligation — each Will is legally independent
- Works for married couples and cohabiting partners
Limitations to consider
- Survivor can change their Will after first death — children may not ultimately inherit
- Not binding on each other (unlike Mutual Wills)
- May not suit blended families with children from previous relationships
- Does not automatically protect against care home fees
Are Mirror Wills Right for You?
Mirror Wills are ideal for: married couples with children together, cohabiting partners who want to protect each other, and couples with straightforward estates who want a simple, effective solution.
Consider a more tailored approach if: you have children from a previous relationship, your estate is likely to exceed the IHT threshold (£325,000), or you want to protect assets from future care home costs.
Mirror Wills for £99
Two full Wills for you and your partner. Expert reviewed. Returned within 24 hours.
Start Mirror Wills →Can unmarried couples get Mirror Wills?
Yes. Mirror Wills are available to any couple — married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting. For unmarried couples, a Will is especially important: without one, a cohabiting partner inherits nothing under the Intestacy Rules.
Do Mirror Wills need to be done at the same time?
Ideally yes — they're drafted together to ensure they truly mirror each other. Each partner completes the questionnaire and both Wills are prepared simultaneously.