Published on: 22nd June 2026

Why ‘Letter of Wishes’ Documents are Essential for Modern Estate Planning in England & Wales

When people think about Estate Planning, they typically focus on drafting a will. However, one powerful yet often overlooked document is the Letter of Wishes.

While not legally binding, a Letter of Wishes can provide clarity, flexibility, and personal guidance that a formal Will often cannot. For families with complex arrangements, young children, or specific personal preferences, it can be an invaluable addition to a well-structured Estate Plan.

What Is a Letter of Wishes?

A Letter of Wishes is a confidential document that accompanies your will. It allows you to explain your intentions and provide guidance to:

• Executors
• Trustees
• Guardians

Unlike a Will, it is not legally enforceable, but it carries significant influence, particularly when trustees or executors are making discretionary decisions.

Why a Letter of Wishes Matters

Adds Personal Context to Your Will

A Will is a legal document and must be precise and formal. This can limit your ability to explain why decisions were made.

A Letter of Wishes allows you to:

• Explain unequal inheritance decisions
• Outline family dynamics or sensitivities
• Provide emotional reassurance to beneficiaries

Provides Guidance for Trustees

If you have set up a trust—especially a discretionary trust—trustees often have flexibility in how assets are distributed.

Your Letter of Wishes can help them understand:

• Who should benefit and when
• Your priorities (education, housing, healthcare, etc.)
• Any concerns about how beneficiaries handle money

Supports Guardianship Decisions

If you have children under 18, your will may appoint guardians. A Letter of Wishes enables you to provide detail on:

• Parenting values
• Education preferences
• Religious or cultural considerations
• Day-to-day upbringing expectations

This can be incredibly helpful during a difficult time.

Flexibility Without Rewriting Your Will

One major advantage is that a Letter of Wishes can be updated at any time without the need to formally change your will.

This is particularly useful if:

• Financial circumstances change
• Relationships evolve
• You want to adjust how a trust might be used

What Should You Include?

A well-prepared Letter of Wishes can cover a wide range of areas:

Financial Guidance

• How and when beneficiaries should receive funds
• Advice on managing inheritance
• Conditions or milestones (e.g., reaching a certain age)

Personal Belongings

• Who should receive sentimental or specific items
• The reasoning behind your choices

Care of Dependents

• Instructions for children or vulnerable dependents
• Lifestyle preferences and routines

Funeral Wishes

Although not legally binding, you can express preferences about:

• Burial or cremation
• Type of service
• Any special arrangements

Common Misconceptions

“It’s Not Legally Binding, So It’s Not Important”

While it’s true that it’s not enforceable in law, many executors and trustees place significant weight on the guidance it provides—especially when it’s clear and thoughtful.

“It Replaces a Will”

A Letter of Wishes does not replace a Will. It should always be used alongside a legally valid Will.

“It’s Only for the Wealthy”

This document is valuable for anyone who:

• Has dependents
• Has specific wishes not suited to a formal will
• Wants to reduce confusion or family disputes

How a Letter of Wishes Can Reduce Family Disputes

Disagreements often arise when beneficiaries don’t understand decisions made in a will. A Letter of Wishes can:

• Provide transparency
• Minimise misunderstandings
• Reduce the likelihood of challenges

In many cases, a simple explanation can prevent long-term conflict.

Best Practices for Writing a Letter of Wishes

• Keep it clear and concise
• Update it regularly as circumstances change
• Store it safely alongside your Will
• Avoid contradictions with your Will
• Seek professional advice to ensure consistency with your Estate Plan

How Casey & Associates Can Help

At Casey & Associates, we support individuals and families in creating comprehensive Estate Plans that go beyond the basics.

We can:

• help you draft and structure a clear Will
• give guidance on create a tailored Letter of Wishes
• plan for tax efficiency and asset protection

Our goal is to ensure your wishes are understood and respected - both legally and personally.

Final Thoughts

A Letter of Wishes may not be legally binding, but its value should not be underestimated. It adds a human layer to legal planning—helping your loved ones navigate decisions with confidence, clarity, and sensitivity.

In an increasingly complex world, combining a strong legal framework with clear personal guidance is one of the best ways to protect your legacy.

Want to strengthen your estate plan? Speak to Casey & Associates today about creating a Will and for guidance on Letters of Wishes tailored to your family’s needs.

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