What’s Stopping People Writing a Will? Cost Concerns, Procrastination and Family Fears

Many people continue to delay making a will, with cost, putting it off, and concerns about potential family disagreements among the most common reasons. However, the consequences of this inaction are becoming increasingly serious, with experts warning of a growing “inheritance timebomb.”

At Complete Estate Protection, we see firsthand how easily estate planning is pushed aside. Yet the latest research shows just how widespread the issue is—almost 60% of those aged 45–54 do not currently have a will, while nearly half of UK adults over 30 are also unprotected.

The findings, based on a survey of more than 2,000 people across the UK, reveal that 56% of respondents say cost influences their decision to either delay or avoid writing a will altogether. This is despite many recognising that having a properly prepared will can prevent far greater financial and emotional strain in the future. In fact, nearly half (48%) are already concerned that not having an up-to-date will could lead to disputes among their loved ones.

From our perspective, those concerns are justified. We are seeing a clear rise in contested estates, often linked to unclear intentions, outdated documents, or informal “DIY” arrangements. Blended families and unequal distributions can further complicate matters, particularly when plans haven’t been carefully structured. In many cases, families are unaware of the legal implications until it is too late.

Family life today is more complex than ever, yet many wills fail to reflect these changes. There is often an assumption that everything will naturally fall into place—but without clear legal documentation, this is rarely the case. Uncertainty can quickly lead to misunderstandings, and in some instances, formal disputes.

Delaying action remains a key issue. A significant proportion of younger adults without a will admit they simply haven’t considered it, and this mindset persists well into later life. Unfortunately, waiting often increases the risk of complications down the line.

There is also a noticeable shift in attitudes towards inheritance. More than a quarter of individuals say they would be willing to challenge a will if they believed it was unfair or did not reflect true intentions—highlighting how important clarity and professional guidance have become.

At Complete Estate Protection, we believe estate planning should be seen as an essential step, not an optional one. A well-structured will provides certainty, protects family relationships, and ensures your wishes are carried out exactly as intended. Without it, families may face avoidable stress, expense, and conflict at an already difficult time.

Contact us today to start your journey toward securing your legacy.