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    Why Young Adults Need a Will: Estate Planning Isn't Just for the Elderly

    24 January 2026 Greg Stevens1 min read

    Summary

    Estate planning isn't just for older people. Here's why everyone over 18 should consider making a Will, especially in 2026.

    Key Takeaways

    • When you think of estate planning, you might picture retired couples or wealthy families.
    • If you own a home (even with a mortgage), you have a significant asset that needs protection.
    • As we've discussed, unmarried partners have no automatic right to inherit under intestacy rules.
    • If you have children, a Will allows you to appoint guardians — the people who will raise your children if something happens to you.
    • Your digital assets may also be significant.

    When you think of estate planning, you might picture retired couples or wealthy families. But the truth is, anyone over 18 with assets, property, or dependants should have a Will — and in 2026, that includes many young adults.

    If you own a home (even with a mortgage), you have a significant asset that needs protection. In 2026, the average age of first-time buyers in the UK is 34, and many buy with partners they're not married to.

    As we've discussed, unmarried partners have no automatic right to inherit under intestacy rules. If you own a home with your partner and don't have a Will, your share could pass to your parents or siblings instead of your partner.

    If you have children, a Will allows you to appoint guardians — the people who will raise your children if something happens to you. Without this, the court decides, which can be stressful for your family.

    Your digital assets may also be significant. Cryptocurrency, online businesses, social media accounts, and digital content all form part of your estate and need to be accounted for.

    Life insurance and pension nominations should be reviewed alongside your Will. These assets don't pass through your Will but need to be coordinated with your overall estate plan.

    At Castle Family Legal, we offer affordable Will writing for people of all ages. Our basic Wills start from £195. Don't think estate planning can wait — contact us today.

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