The holiday season is a time of joy, connection and reflection. For professionals in the estate planning space, it’s also an ideal opportunity to encourage clients, new and existing, to review their plans and update their Wills. Whether it’s the spirit of giving, family gatherings, or a fresh start for the New Year, December offers a unique window for meaningful conversations.

Here’s some reasons to reach out to your clients and prospects this holiday season:

Reflecting on Family and Relationships

Christmas brings families together, sometimes under one roof for the first time all year. This makes it a natural time to assess the dynamics of relationships and the implications for inheritance planning. Has the family welcomed a new baby, in-law, or grandchild? Are there potential changes in guardianship arrangements for children?

At the same time, it’s a good moment to check whether existing arrangements reflect the client’s current wishes. Family discussions during the festive period can also help pre-empt conflicts later by clarifying intentions while loved ones are present.

Addressing Recent Legislative Changes

The recent budget has introduced changes that could significantly impact estate planning strategies. These include the freezing of the nil-rate band and residence nil-rate band until 2028, reductions in capital gains tax allowances, and other notable adjustments. 

Many people are already revisiting their estate plans in light of these changes. For those who haven’t yet, this presents an excellent opportunity to help them update their Wills, ensuring their plans remain aligned with their current circumstances and the latest legislation. 

Tis the Season for Gifting Strategies 

Christmas is synonymous with generosity, and many clients choose this time of year to make gifts to loved ones. Solicitors can remind them of the £3,000 annual gift allowance, which can be carried forward one year if unused. 

Divorce and Separation 

Unfortunately, the end of the year often brings an uptick in relationship breakdowns. Divorce can have a significant impact on a client’s Will, especially if a former spouse is named as a beneficiary or executor. You can use this time to remind clients to: 

• Update their Wills to reflect their new circumstances. 
• Consider protective structures, such as Trusts, to secure assets for children or other family members. 

Starting Fresh in The New Year 

The transition from one year to the next often prompts people to review their priorities and tie up loose ends. Updating a Will is an excellent resolution, particularly for clients whose circumstances have changed over the past year. Highlighting the simplicity of making minor adjustments or preparing a new Will altogether can encourage action. 

The holiday season can be an advantageous time of year to reach out to clients. By offering to review their Wills, you remind them of your commitment to protecting their families and their legacies. You could offer them a seasonal offer, which includes: 

• A free initial consultation in December or January to review existing Wills. 
• Educational newsletters or webinars explaining the implications of recent legislative changes and how they might affect estate plans. 
• Guidance on broader estate planning and a wider range of documents, such as Lasting Powers of Attorney or Expression of Wishes. 
• Providing individuals without a Will with a marketing tool that visually demonstrates the consequences of dying intestate. This resource emphasises the importance of professional estate planning, encouraging them to take proactive steps to safeguard their assets and ensure their loved ones are protected. Explore the Intestacy Lead Generator here.