Make a will in Ireland

A clear, valid will is the single best thing you can do to protect the people you love. We'll match you with a wills solicitor in your county to get it done properly.

A will lets you decide who inherits your home, savings and belongings, who looks after your children, and who carries out your wishes. Without one, the law — not you — decides who gets what under the rules of intestacy.

What makes a will valid in Ireland

Under the Succession Act 1965, a will is valid if you are over 18 (or married), of sound mind, and you sign it in the presence of two witnesses who also sign while you are present. Witnesses (and their spouses) cannot be beneficiaries. A solicitor makes sure these formalities are met — a homemade will that fails them can be worthless.

What a wills solicitor will help you with

• choosing executors and, if needed, guardians and trustees for children;
• making proper provision for a spouse or civil partner (who has a legal right share);
• planning around Capital Acquisitions Tax so beneficiaries keep more;
• dealing with farms, businesses, and second properties;
• mirror wills for couples, and what happens if you separate or remarry.

The legal right share

You cannot simply disinherit a spouse or civil partner. They are entitled to a legal right share of your estate: one-half if you have no children, or one-third if you do. Children do not have an automatic right to a share, but can apply to court under Section 117 of the Succession Act if they feel proper provision was not made for them. A solicitor helps you balance these duties with your wishes.

Make your will the easy way

Tell us your county and we'll connect you with a solicitor who drafts wills locally. Many offer fixed fees and can have your will ready within a couple of weeks.

Frequently asked questions