Will Writing software is a small but growing section of the software market. You can either download a programme directly over the internet or buy a complete kit with CD or DVD and instruction booklet.

The prices range from approximately £10 up to around £40 depending on the programme’s flexibility and pack contents. Many of the more expensive and extensive software programmes are actually used in conjunction with solicitors’ services by online will making services.

Lawpack’s DIY Will Kit can be either downloaded or bought as a complete kit. Unlike a lot of software available it consists of templates you fill in as you go and helps you produce a will that is legally binding in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

An extensive advice section and various examples are provided to help you and the legal points are regularly checked and updated as necessary by qualified solicitors. The complete kit includes a stationary pack and the same forms in Word format.

http://www.lawpack.co.uk/WillsAndPowerOfAttorney/Wills/product702.asp

Will Maker by Avanquest is approximately the same price as Lawpack’s kit and is similar to Lawpack’s product in that it allows you to name an unlimited number of beneficiaries and also make gifts, appoint executors, make charitable donations, leave money in simple trusts and state your wishes regarding funeral arrangements.

Will Maker also gives you the opportunity to have your will reviewed and checked by a legal team which is reassuring. This software is only suitable for wills made in England or Wales.

http://www.avanquest.com/UK/create/publishing/Personal/Will_Maker.html

Will Maker De Luxe is more expensive at around £30 but has some more advanced features, one of the most important being advice and options available concerning Inheritance Tax for those with an estate valued at over £285,000.

http://www.avanquest.com/UK/create/publishing/Personal/Will_Maker_Deluxe.html?pid=3683

For those requiring a will and who are at ease with computers and are seeking an alternative to an expensive visit to a solicitors office in a form that’s easy to redo in case of changing circumstances then purchasing will writing software is certainly an option worth considering.

The layout and legal terms in the documents produced are checked by qualified legal teams which is reassuring however the majority of the software available is fairly restrictive regarding available options and therefore more suitable for people requiring reasonably straightforward will preparation.