Why 27-Year-Olds Are Writing Wills Early

Setting the Record Straight

When we think about making a will, the image that usually comes to mind is an elderly person with a long list of assets and complex family dynamics. But that's changing. For 27-year-old Erin Atkinson, writing her will was a practical and deeply personal choice—one she made well before many people even consider such matters.

Erin works in psychological research at a London university and has been living independently for four years after moving from Bristol. While she doesn't earn what you might call a fortune, she's not broke either. In fact, she's taken steps to ensure that her financial legacy reflects both her values and her relationships.

"At first it felt quite surreal because you associate wills with older people," Erin says. "But I wanted to take control of things and make sure my wishes were known."

The Surprising Relevance of Wills for Young Adults

In recent years, a shift has occurred in how people view estate planning. Once considered a luxury for the wealthy or elderly, wills are now seen by some as essential tools even for young adults.

According to the 2025 National Wills Report, only one in five 18-to-24-year-olds have a will in place. That figure jumps to 33% among those aged 22 to 34 and reaches 56% for individuals over 55.

Sophia Maslin, founder of Morby—a company offering an online platform for making wills—has noticed this growing awareness firsthand. "People believe they don't own enough," she says. "But actually, if you've got some sort of savings, investments, pensions, your social media accounts, if you've got pets, even funeral wishes, these are all things to think about."

Personal Motivations Behind the Decision

Erin's journey to her will began not with a grand plan, but with a conversation sparked by her friend's home purchase. As she reflected on the legal responsibilities involved in such major life decisions, she started questioning her own preparedness.

The turning point came when she saw Sophia Maslin discussing wills on TikTok. Maslin shared the story of her cousin who died young without a will, creating chaos for his family. That moment helped Erin realize that her future was just as important to consider.

Additionally, seeing how her grandmother's will impacted her extended family highlighted the value of clear direction. "Seeing the will written in a way that was very directive showed me you can take a lot of pressure off the family," she explains.

The Financial Reality of a Young Person's Estate

Even for those without substantial assets, creating a will offers several practical advantages. Eleanor Hodgson from Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors notes that it isn't just about your assets—it's also about ensuring that your bank accounts and debts are handled properly.

"It's not just your assets that it helps because there's still someone that has to deal with your bank accounts and any debts you have, and it's [being] able to name a person that can legally deal with that without having to jump through hoops," she explains.

This is especially true for young people who may be in student debt or have other financial obligations. By naming an executor, they provide a clear path for their estate's administration, potentially saving both time and legal costs for their loved ones.

More Than Just Money: Emotional Legacies

For Erin, the emotional significance of her will far outweighed its monetary value. She decided to leave her £7,000 car to her sister and a gold necklace given by her partner back to him. Additionally, she specified a donation to an endometriosis charity—a cause close to her heart.

"For me, writing a will wasn't about expecting the worst," Erin says. "It was about taking responsibility and making life easier for the people I care about."

She also included smaller details that reflect her personal preferences: a poem to be read at her funeral, the type of drink she wants served, and even specific music choices.

Making a Will: A Simple Guide

The idea of drafting a will can seem overwhelming or expensive, but there are accessible options available. Every November, organizations like Will Aid collaborate with solicitors who volunteer their services to help write basic wills at no cost.

When it comes to actually writing a will, consider the following key elements:

• Choose your beneficiaries: Decide who you want to inherit your money and possessions—family members, friends, or charitable organizations. If you have children under 18, name guardians for them.
• Choose an executor: This person is responsible for carrying out your wishes after death. They could be a family member or a professional, though fees may apply.
• Think about pets: You can specify who should care for them posthumously.
• Leave funeral wishes: Include details like burial vs. cremation preferences, music selections, readings, and floral arrangements.
• Keep your will somewhere safe: Store it in a secure location and let someone know where it is. If it's lost, it could lead to complications.

Looking Ahead: Why Now Is the Time

In a world where life can change quickly, preparing for the future—even something as personal as a will—is one of the most responsible actions we can take.

While some might dismiss the idea of planning ahead at 27, especially when there's no immediate need, thinking about it now allows for clarity and peace of mind. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on what matters most to you in life, not just your possessions.

The decision to draft a will early isn't about mortality—it's about legacy. And sometimes, the best legacies are the ones we shape while we're still here.