Wills made online are more likely to include charitable gifts than others, according to new research.
The survey, carried out by consultancy Legacy Futures between January and July 2024, was answered by 2,000 members of the general public.
It found that nearly one in 10 people who have created a will have done so online, and one in five who have yet to make a will plan to do so online.
Online will makers are also more likely to be younger, have a higher household income, be working, single and have children than the average will-maker; however, a significant proportion are aged over 65.
For many charities, online wills are increasingly being used to attract and engage would-be donors of legacy gifts.
The research found that confusion exists around the role of charities in the online will-making process, with some people unsure whether they are supporting charities just by using the service, or believing that the service is part of the charity’s provision.
An additional challenge, the research says, is that many consumers mistakenly assume that all online will products are broadly similar.
‘Online will trend is set to continue’
Anna Turner, head of research and insight at Legacy Futures, said: “As more people opt for digital will creation and providers enhance their offerings, this trend is set to continue, shaping the future of charitable giving through online wills.
“This is potentially very exciting for charities, for whom the trend presents further opportunities to garner legacy supporters.
“With younger people being increasingly digital first and more likely to turn to the internet for advice and conduct their financial affairs online, it is likely that a significant proportion of new people entering the will making market will gravitate towards an online option.”
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