Members of the armed forces (Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army and Royal Air Forces), whether currently serving or veterans, face unique challenges and risks in their lives. Making a Will is crucial for ensuring that your wishes are honoured and your loved ones are cared for should the unexpected happen. Below, we'll explore the key reasons why every member of the armed forces should have a Will in place.
Key considerations for Armed Forces personnel on making a Will
1. Unpredictable nature of the job
Military personnel are often deployed to hostile environments where the risk of injury or death is significantly higher than in civilian life. Having a Will ensures that your affairs are in order, providing peace of mind that your assets, finances, and loved ones are protected in case of an unfortunate event.
2. Protecting your loved ones
Many service members have dependants, whether they are spouses, children, or other relatives. A Will allows you to clearly state who should inherit your assets and ensures that your family is provided for. Without a Will, the distribution of your estate may not reflect your wishes, and the law Will dictate who receives your assets, which could lead to unintended consequences.
3. Clear guidance for guardianship
If you have children, appointing guardians is one of the most important aspects of a Will. In the armed forces, where parents may be deployed for long periods or in dangerous areas, it’s crucial to have clear instructions about who Will care for your children if you are no longer able to. A Will ensures that the right people are legally named to look after them.
4. Veterans and changing circumstances
For veterans, life after service often brings new challenges and opportunities. You may have acquired additional assets or seen changes in your family circumstances (such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child). Keeping your Will up to date ensures that your estate reflects your current situation and wishes. Veterans, especially those with long-standing health conditions due to their service, should also be proactive in ensuring their affairs are in order.
5. Avoiding family disputes
Without a clear Will in place, family members may disagree about how your estate should be divided. This can lead to disputes, causing unnecessary stress and heartache. By having a Will, you can prevent this, making your intentions known and reducing the likelihood of conflict among loved ones.
6. Tailoring to military benefits
Many military personnel are entitled to specific benefits such as pensions or compensation in the event of injury or death. A Will allows you to outline how these benefits should be managed, ensuring they are distributed in the way you intend.
7. Peace of mind for you and your family
Having a Will in place gives you peace of mind, knowing that no matter what happens, your loved ones Will be cared for, and your wishes Will be respected. This is especially important in the military, where both active service and veterans face uncertainty about the future.
Our free Will writing service for Armed Forces personnel and veterans
At Wills Services, we understand the unique circumstances faced by armed forces personnel and veterans. That’s why we offer a free basic Will writing service tailored to your needs. Our simple process ensures that your Will is professionally written, reflecting your wishes accurately and legally.
It is possible to create a basic Military Will using MOD Form 106, which is stored in Glasgow after completion and retrieved if you become a casualty. However, Form 106 may not be suitable for all situations, and even the form itself advises seeking professional legal advice in certain cases.
Whether you're currently serving, preparing for deployment, or a veteran looking to update your Will, we're here to help. Take advantage of our offer to safeguard your future and protect the people you care about most.
To redeem your free basic Will, just enter the promo code FREEWILLAF24 at the checkout*
Don't wait for the unexpected - plan today for peace of mind tomorrow. Start your Will today.
