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How Much Does a Will Cost in Scotland? (2025 Guide)

Making a will in Scotland does not have a single fixed price. Costs vary widely depending on how you do it, who helps you, and how complex your situation is. Some people pay nothing upfront, while others spend hundreds of pounds on a solicitor. This guide explains the realistic costs of making a will in Scotland, what you actually get for that money, and how to choose the option that makes sense for your circumstances.

Typical Will Costs in Scotland (Quick Overview)

As a rough guide, most Scottish wills fall into one of these categories:
  • High street solicitor: usually £300–£600+ for a basic single will.
  • Charity “free will” schemes: £0 upfront, with an expectation of a donation or legacy.
  • DIY will templates or books: £0–£30, with no guidance or checking.
  • Online Scottish will services: fixed fee, usually much lower than a solicitor.
The cheapest option is not always the best value, and the most expensive option is not always necessary.

How Much Does a Solicitor Will Cost in Scotland?

Most high street solicitors in Scotland charge a fixed fee for a simple will, often starting around £300–£600 for a single person. Costs can rise quickly if your situation is more complicated. A solicitor is usually worth the cost if you:
  • Have a large or complex estate.
  • Own property or assets outside the UK.
  • Need inheritance tax planning.
  • Are setting up trusts.
  • Expect family disputes or challenges to your will.
For straightforward estates, many people find solicitor fees hard to justify — especially when the will itself is relatively simple.

Are “Free Wills” in Scotland Really Free?

Many charities offer so-called “free will” schemes. These usually involve a solicitor preparing your will at no upfront cost, with the understanding that you consider leaving a donation or legacy to the charity. This can be a good option if:
  • You are happy to leave something to charity.
  • You are not under pressure or time constraints.
  • Your circumstances are relatively straightforward.
However, it is important to understand that these schemes are not purely neutral. Some people feel uncomfortable making long-term decisions while being encouraged to leave a gift.

DIY Will Templates: Cheap, But Often Risky

DIY will templates and books are the cheapest option upfront. Many cost little or nothing and are widely available online. The risks come from:
  • Templates written for England and Wales, not Scotland.
  • Outdated wording or legal terminology.
  • No guidance on executors, substitutes or legal rights.
  • Common signing mistakes that invalidate the will.
A will that looks fine on paper but is invalid can create serious problems later. For a deeper explanation, see our Scottish Will Templates Guide.

Online Wills in Scotland: Cost vs Value

Online Scottish will services sit between DIY templates and solicitors. They usually offer:
  • A fixed, transparent price.
  • Structured questions that guide you through the process.
  • Scottish-specific wording.
  • Clear signing instructions.
They are generally well-suited to people with straightforward estates who want clarity, speed and cost certainty. If you are unsure whether online wills are legally valid, you can read our full guide: Are Online Wills Legal in Scotland?

What Actually Makes a Will Expensive Later?

The real cost of a will is often not the price you pay today, but the problems it causes later. Common issues include:
  • Incorrect or missing signatures.
  • Unclear wording that leads to disputes.
  • No substitute beneficiaries or executors.
  • Using non-Scottish templates.
  • Out-of-date wills that no longer reflect your situation.
These problems can delay estates, increase legal fees, and cause stress for families.

What Is the Sensible Choice for Most Scottish Families?

There is no single “right” option, but as a general guide:
  • Simple estates: an online Scottish will is often sufficient.
  • Complex estates: a solicitor is usually the safest route.
  • DIY templates: only suitable if you fully understand the risks.
The key is matching the solution to your circumstances — not overpaying, but not cutting corners either.

Quick FAQs About Will Costs in Scotland

Does a more expensive will mean it is more legal?

No. A will is legal if it is correctly worded for Scots law and properly signed and witnessed. Price alone does not determine validity.

Can I change my will later?

Yes. You can make a new will at any time, as long as you have mental capacity.

Do couples pay double?

Most couples need two separate wills. Some services offer reduced pricing for mirror wills.

Is a cheap will better than no will?

Often yes — but only if it is valid. An invalid will can be worse than having none at all.

Ready to Put Your Own Scottish Will in Place?

If your situation is reasonably straightforward and you want a fixed-price, Scottish-specific solution, you can start your Scottish will online here. If you are unsure whether this is right for you, feel free to contact us with any questions before starting.