Sibling beneficiary

[Amaaazing]

I am still mulling over what to put in my will before I see a will writer and was wondering what percentage of their estate people tend to leave to their own siblings as opposed to their DP & DC?

My sibling doesn't have any dependents but I'd like to leave her a token amount and I just can't seem to think what a reasonable amount would be.

Anyone willing to share whether and how they have included a sibling in their will?

[mumblechum1]

I'm a will writer and would say that pecuniary (specific amounts of cash) legacies are unusual on the first death. This is because the spouse has to find the money to pay it, which may be a problem is there isn't enough cash in ready funds. It's more usual to make these gifts on the second death, but if you're confident that it won't cause a problem, you can put in any amount you wish, but don't specify it as a percentage of your residuary estate, as that won't work.

If you're sure it won't cause a problem to leave, say, £5,000 then do so, and then in 10 years or so you can always change it if appropriate.

You also need to think about whether the gift is specified as subject to tax or free of tax, as that may mean that it's worth more or less than other gifts depending on their tax status.

Also think about whether to specify what happens to the gift if your sister doesn't survive you.

If you want any more info, I have a paid-for advert over on MN Classifieds (Small Business) section.