Two Ways to Change a Will
| Codicil | New Will | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Amends specific provisions | Replaces the old Will entirely |
| Best for | Minor changes (executor, specific gift) | Major changes — after marriage, new children |
| Witnesses required | Yes — same rules as original | Yes — 2 independent witnesses |
⚠️ Never cross out or annotate a signed Will. Any handwritten changes invalidate the document. Use a codicil or write a new Will.
When You Must Update Your Will
- Getting married — marriage automatically revokes your existing Will
- Having children — name guardians, update beneficiaries
- Divorce — ex-spouse treated as having predeceased you, but rest of Will stands
- Buying property — especially if ownership structure changes
- Death of an executor or beneficiary — name replacements
- Significant change in assets — business sale, inheritance, property acquisition
Does Divorce Cancel My Will?
No. Divorce does not revoke a Will in England and Wales. However, gifts to an ex-spouse are treated as if they had predeceased you from the date of the decree absolute. If your ex was sole executor and beneficiary, this can leave your estate without a valid executor.
Best practice: Write a new Will immediately after separation — not after decree absolute.
How Often Should I Review?
Every 3–5 years as a minimum, and after any significant life event. Laws change, families change, assets change. A Will is a living document, not a one-time task.
Sources & references
Authoritative UK government, HMRC, statute and Citizens Advice sources. Last reviewed: 31 May 2026.
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