Letter of Wishes Template
A letter of wishes sits alongside your will to give your executors or trustees guidance on how you'd like things handled. It isn't legally binding but offers valuable context.
What this letter of wishes covers
- Guidance for executors or trustees
- Wishes about personal items
- Funeral preferences
- Reasons behind decisions in the will
- Care of dependants or pets
When you need a letter of wishes
- Explaining decisions in your will
- Guiding trustees of a discretionary trust
- Recording personal wishes
The legal framework
Understanding the law behind a letter of wishes helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:
Frequently asked questions
Is a letter of wishes legally binding?
No. It guides your executors and trustees but doesn't override the will itself.
Why write one?
It provides helpful context and personal guidance, especially where trustees have discretion.
How Legal Lift helps
Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored letter of wishes, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.