Does marriage cancel my will?

In England and Wales, marriage or civil partnership generally revokes an existing will automatically, unless the will was made in express contemplation of that marriage. After marrying, you normally need to make a new will.

How do I change my will?

Make minor changes with a codicil (signed and witnessed like a will) or, for bigger changes, make a new will that revokes the old one. Don't alter a signed will by hand — it can invalidate it.

How often should I update my will?

Q: How often should I update my will?

Review it every three to five years and after any major life event — marriage, divorce, a new child, a death among beneficiaries or executors, a house purchase, or a significant change in assets. Marriage usually revokes an existing will, so a new one is needed.

England & Wales · Wills

Quick answer

Review your will every three to five years, and always after a major life event: marriage or civil partnership, divorce, a new child or grandchild, a death among your beneficiaries or executors, buying property, or a big change in your wealth. Crucially, marriage usually revokes an existing will entirely — so a fresh will is needed.

Detailed explanation

A will is a snapshot of your life when you wrote it. Life moves on; the will should keep up.

Always review after

Marriage or civil partnership — this generally revokes your existing will (section 18, Wills Act 1837), unless it was made in contemplation of that marriage.
Divorce — an ex-spouse is treated as having died for the will's purposes, which can have unintended effects.
A new child or grandchild — to include them and appoint guardians.
A death — of a beneficiary, executor or guardian.
Property or major assets — buying, selling, or a big change in value.

How to make changes

Small changes can be made by a codicil; larger ones are better handled by making a new will that revokes the old one. Never amend a signed will by crossing things out — that can invalidate it.

Example scenario

Five years after making her will, Jenny marries and has a child. The marriage automatically revoked her old will, and it said nothing about her new baby. She makes a fresh will naming her husband and child and appointing a guardian — closing both gaps at once.

The marriage trap catches people out. Many assume their old will still stands after marrying. Usually it doesn't — check and replace it.

What happens next?

Complete the questionnaireA few guided questions about you, your family and your wishes.
Human reviewYour answers are checked by the ClearLegacy editorial team for completeness.
Receive your documentsYour will and supporting paperwork are produced, ready to print.
Sign correctlyClear instructions on signing and witnessing so the will is legally valid.
Protect your familyYour wishes are recorded and your loved ones are spared the intestacy default.

Sources

Wills Act 1837, section 9 (valid execution) — legislation.gov.uk
GOV.UK — Making a will
Citizens Advice — Wills

Reviewed by: ClearLegacy editorial team
Last reviewed: June 2026
Next review: December 2026
Jurisdiction: England & Wales

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