🐶 More Than Just a Pet

For many of us, our dogs are:

·        Our walking partners

·        Our therapists after a long day

·        Our alarm clocks (whether we like it or not!)

·        Our loyal companions through every stage of life

They depend on us completely — for care, comfort, and security. But have you ever considered what would happen to them if you weren’t around?

🦴 Can You Include Your Dog in Your Will?

Absolutely! While pets can’t directly inherit money, you can make legally binding arrangements in your will to ensure:

·        A chosen guardian takes care of them

·        Funds are set aside for their upkeep

·        Their lifestyle and care preferences are clearly outlined

·        Multiple pets are kept together

Without clear instructions, pets can sometimes end up in uncertain situations — something no loving owner would want. At MapleWills, we understand that estate planning isn’t just about property and finances — it’s about protecting everything that matters. And for many families, that includes four-legged family members. So as Crufts celebrates the incredible world of dogs, it’s the perfect reminder to ask:

“If anything happened to me, who would look after my best friend?”

If you don’t yet have that answer written down legally, we’re here to help. Because every champion deserves a plan — even the ones with paws.

Call us today to include your dog in your will: 01908 478988 ask for Hayley

🍁  Did you know? 🍁

Around 56% of UK adults do not have a will. Statistically, that means whilst reading this, theres a fair chance you don’t have one? For many people, it just doesnt feel like a priority, its pushed to the back of their mind, put off to another day, whilst we get on with our busy lives.

Unexpected tradegies  happen to us, people can suddenly pass away, young or old, healthy, fit, well or ill. But without a will in place, its not your closest family members who decide what happens to your estate, the law does, and there are no rules of family dynamics taken into account,  or feelings, or intentions.

A will does not have to be complicated, can easily be updated at anytime, and stored with MapleWills. Come and see us, and let us put your mind at rest. Putting off something so important is the biggest risk you might ever take. Let us give you peace of mind, please call today 01908 478988.

April Spotlight!

🍁Trusts Are Not a Magic Bullet – A Maple Wills Guide🍁:

At Maple Wills, we regularly speak with clients who have been told that trusts are the answer to inheritance tax and protecting family assets. It’s an appealing idea—simple, effective, and widely promoted online. But the reality is more perceptive:

🌿 Trusts: A Valuable Tool, Not a Quick Fix

Trusts can be a powerful part of estate planning. They allow you to control how your assets are passed on and can provide protection for your loved ones.

However, they are not suitable for everyone. Used incorrectly, trusts can introduce unnecessary complexity and cost.

💸 The Truth About Tax

One of the biggest misconceptions is that trusts automatically reduce inheritance tax.

In reality, some trusts can trigger immediate tax charges, particularly when assets exceed certain thresholds. There may also be ongoing costs and administrative responsibilities to consider.

In some cases, a trust can result in more tax being paid overall, rather than less.

🏡 Putting Your Home into a Trust

This is one of the most common questions we’re asked.

While it is possible to place your home into a trust, continuing to live in it can mean it is still treated as part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes.

Avoiding this often requires paying full market rent—something that is not always practical.

⚠️ Why Personalised Advice Matters

Trusts are often presented as simple, “off-the-shelf” solutions—but they are anything but.

Without the right advice, you may face:

• Unexpected tax consequences

• Loss of control over your assets

• Unnecessary complexity

Every family is different, which is why estate planning should always be tailored to your circumstances.

✅ When Trusts Can Work Well

Trusts can be highly effective when used correctly, such as:

• Providing for young or vulnerable beneficiaries

• Protecting assets across generations

• Supporting more complex family arrangements

The key is ensuring the trust is set up for the right reasons, in the right way.

🍁 The Maple Wills Approach 🍁

At Maple Wills, we believe in clear, honest advice—not one-size-fits-all solutions.

We take the time to understand your situation and guide you towards the approach that genuinely works for you.

If you’re considering a trust or reviewing your estate plan, Maple Wills is here to help you make informed, confident decisions.

Call us today 01908 478988

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