Not knowing what to do about Will writing , no DP or relatives.

[starshine1926]

Since my DM passed away nearly 2 years ago, I have no close family left. I do have cousins but we never see each other from one year to the next; in fact, only one cousin came to DM funeral.

I am aware I should make a will as I own a few properties and have savings. Hopefully, I will live long enough to spend it. However, I could be knocked down by a bus tomorrow and would not wish my assets to go to distant relatives. I might marry a millionaire next year but I might not find one , so I need to make a will that reflects my current circumstances.

I have one close friend and lots of acquaintances so it seems reasonable to leave something to my friend and the bulk of the rest to charity. I would leave some to the hospice which cared for DM and some to environmental/animal charities. But trying to choose beneficiaries is a nightmare: all the big charities have tens of millions and their chief execs are on stupid money. If I left money to charity, I would want it to be properly used not squandered on balls, high salaries and other jollies. Also, who would be the executor?

Any suggestions welcome, especially from childfree MN, or anyone in a similar position to me. It's depressing me enough just thinking about this but I want to get it done so I can focus on more positive things.

By the by, gift in wills week is coming up soon and you’ll be able to get your will drawn up for free with a donation to a charity. Many solicitors run this scheme throughout the year and you can pick the charity.

I work for a small local charity and that’s what I’d go for
Research how they are funded and what they do with that funding
Even a very modest legacy would allow us to support hundreds or even thousands of people - I dream of it but it’s unlikely as there are so many deserving causes out there
Follow your heart
I would never leave money to some of the big money names who I feel waste so much of it

What are your interests, OP?

I would definitely leave a house to my friend - that security means so much. Does she have children?

I'm afraid I wouldn't give anything to a big charity. I don't think much of it would be spent on the cause itself.

Definitely instruct solicitors to sell the houses, not leave it to a friend to do, it's a pita/load of work and if there's tenants, it needs doing with the correct notices, etc.

I would leave the majority to my friend but look for local homeless shelters and foodnanks in my local area and think about anything close to my heart. So for example as well as your mums hospice is there a charity that helps with the illness she died of? What about your dad? Does your friend have anything in her life that could be supported such as a child with special needs or a sick relative. How about a bereavement charity? Is there a charity that supports people who are lonely in your area? Do you have a hobby and could money go towards helping disabled or vulnerable.people access that hobby?

In your situation I would cash in and spend the lot!