If you wish to change your Will, you can either revoke (cancel) the previous Will and make a new one or add a Codicil to the original Will.
It is advisable to instruct a solicitor to assist you in making a Will, or adding a Codicil.
There are three types of gift:
Residuary
A gift of all or part of your estate after debts, liabilities and other legacies.
Pecuniary
The gift of a particular sum of money.
Specific
The gift of a specified item such as property, a painting or jewellery
Suggested Wording
If you should decide to make a gift or add a Codicil in favour of the Almshouse Association, the following wording may be helpful when you visit your solicitor:
A Gift to the Almshouse Association:
“I give all (or a percentage share) of the residue of my estate to the Almshouse Association (Charity Registered Number 245668) for its general charitable purposes and I direct that the receipt of the Honorary Treasurer or duly authorised officer shall be a valid and appropriate form of discharge”.
A Codicil to the Almshouse Association
“I (name) of (address) declare this to be my Codicil to my last Will dated (date). I give (details of legacy) to the Almshouse Association (Charity Registered Number 245668) for its general charitable purposes and I direct that the receipt of the Honorary Treasurer or duly authorised officer shall be a valid and appropriate form of discharge. In all other respects, I confirm my Will”.
If you revoke a Will, you should destroy it and state that your new Will revokes all previous Wills. If you were to marry, re-marry or enter into a civil partnership this would usually invalidate an existing Will. Divorce does not automatically invalidate a Will made during marriage.
See also: Leave a Legacy