Why The Absence of a Will Can Create Serious Complications

The recent passing of pop star Liam Payne has highlighted an issue which is often overlooked: the consequences of dying without a Will.  While we are not legal professionals, as accountants, we strongly encourage clients to speak with a qualified solicitor about putting a valid Will in place.

What Happens Without a Will?

When someone dies without a Will, known as dying intestate, their estate is distributed according to strict rules set out in UK law. These rules may not reflect what the individual would have wanted and can have unintended outcomes.

Liam Payne's Case – A High-Profile Example

• Liam Payne died without a Will, despite having an estate reportedly worth £24.3 million.

• Under intestacy rules, his 8-year-old son is set to inherit his entire estate at age 18.

• Neither his son’s mother nor his girlfriend will receive anything, neither will any other members of his family.

This case offers a very useful reminder that without a Will, the law decides who inherits your estate, not you.

Why It Matters – From a Financial Perspective

The absence of a Will can lead to:

• Unintended beneficiaries, where loved ones or dependants are left out e.g. believing that your spouse or civil partner will automatically inherit the whole of your estate

• Increased costs, delays, and potential disputes

• Missed opportunities to structure your estate in a tax-efficient way

• Children receiving large inheritances at 18, which may not be ideal from a financial maturity standpoint

Our Advice

We strongly recommend that all clients have a professionally drafted Will, prepared in consultation with a solicitor. This ensures:

• Your estate is distributed according to your wishes

• The right people are looked after

• Estate tax planning opportunities are considered

Final Thought

Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy or elderly. It’s a vital part of financial planning for anyone who wants to ensure their assets are handled properly and their loved ones are protected. If you haven’t already done so, now is a great time to speak with a solicitor and get a Will in place.

If you would like us to liaise with your solicitor, or assist with preparing financial information for your estate planning, we are here to help.