MAKING A WILL IN IRELAND - THE STEPS »

Take Stock

• Consider your legal and moral activities.

Value

• Consider your wealth. You may not think that your monetary wealth is very high, but consider what life assurance policies, employer’s death in service benefit, etc. might be payable if you were to die.

Executors

• Choose who you would like to look after your affairs; ideally you should name at least two Executors.

Special Bequests

• You may have some items of special value (sentimental or otherwise) such as jewellery, antiques, family heirlooms etc. If you would like these to go to a specific person, you can mention this in your Will.

Tax

• Consider any special tax implications. Those receiving inheritances from you may be liable for Capital Acquisitions Tax (Inheritance Tax). See our Frequently Asked Questions for important notes on tax.

Funeral Arrangements

• If you have a special preference for your funeral arrangements, take note of them on your Will.

Instruct a Solicitor

• You can of course make your own Will. However, preparing a Will is a technical and sometimes complex task and you may prefer to instruct a Solicitor to draw one up for you. In particular, Dermot Coyne advises you to seek legal assistance if
• you have a substantial net worth
• You have a partner but are not legally married
• You are divorced or separated, especially if you are in a second relationship
• If you have other special circumstances.