As families look ahead to a new year, many take the opportunity to put important legal affairs in order. At Ives & Co, our wills and probate specialists see January as a key moment when people pause, reflect, and plan for the future. In 2026, will-making is being shaped by changing family structures, evolving assets, and greater awareness of long-term planning — making this the ideal time to review what really matters.
Why Will-Making Looks Different in 2026
Wills are no longer limited to property and savings alone. Modern estates often include digital assets, blended family arrangements, and long-term care considerations, all of which add layers of complexity to estate planning. As a result, many families are taking a more detailed and forward-thinking approach, placing greater emphasis on clarity, accuracy, and future-proofing their arrangements to reflect both current needs and long-term intentions.
- Digital Assets Are Now Essential
From online banking to photo libraries and crypto wallets, digital assets are becoming a standard part of wills.
✔ Email accounts
✔ Cloud storage and photo libraries
✔ Online businesses and subscriptions
✔ Digital investments
Failing to address these assets can cause unnecessary delays and complications for executors.
- Property Values Continue to Shape Estate Planning
Rising property prices mean more estates are approaching inheritance tax thresholds.
✔ Family homes worth significantly more than expected
✔ Increased use of nil-rate band planning
✔ Greater awareness of residence nil-rate band rules
In 2026, accurate valuations and careful drafting are more important than ever.
- Blended Families Need Clearer Wills
With more second marriages and blended families, wills are being written with greater precision.
✔ Protecting children from previous relationships
✔ Providing for current spouses or partners
✔ Avoiding disputes between beneficiaries
Clear wording is essential to prevent misunderstandings and future conflict.
- Growing Use of Trusts
Trusts are becoming increasingly popular as families seek more control over how assets are managed and distributed.
✔ Protecting vulnerable beneficiaries
✔ Managing inheritance for younger family members
✔ Supporting long-term financial planning
Trusts can add flexibility and reassurance when used appropriately.
- Executors Face Greater Responsibilities
Executors now deal with more regulation, digital processes, and administrative checks.
✔ Enhanced identity verification
✔ More detailed asset reporting
✔ Longer timelines for estate administration
In 2026, selecting the right executor — and preparing them properly — is a key consideration.
Things Families Should Watch in 2026
🔍 Increased scrutiny from financial institutions
Banks and investment providers continue to tighten verification and compliance checks.
🔍 Ongoing inheritance tax discussions
While thresholds remain unchanged, future reforms are widely debated and monitored.
🔍 Digitalisation of probate processes
More systems are moving online, requiring accurate documentation and clear records.
When Should You Review Your Will?
A will should always reflect your current circumstances. It may be time to review your will if your family situation has changed, if you have bought or sold property, or if you now hold digital or overseas assets that were not previously included. Changes to your choice of executors can also be an important reason for review. Even without major life events, reviewing your will regularly helps ensure your wishes remain clear, accurate, and effective as circumstances and legislation evolve.
Final Thoughts for 2026
Will-making in 2026 is about preparation, clarity, and keeping pace with change. Families who take time early in the year to understand new trends and review their arrangements are better positioned to avoid uncertainty later. A clear, well-structured will provides reassurance — not just for today, but for the years ahead.
