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Making or amending a Will, step-by-step

Leaving us a gift in your Will simply means you can be there for animals who need us - even after you're gone. This simple guide shows you the practical steps you need to take to make it happen.

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Step 1 - use our Will planner

Use our Will planner to add up the estimated value of your estate (that's everything you've saved and own) and make a list of people and organisations you'd like to leave money, property or possessions to.

Step 2 - appoint Executors

Appoint one or more Executors (up to four) to carry out the terms of the Will. This can be a relative, friend or legal adviser. It can even be us, in certain circumstances. Please phone us on 0300 123 0239 if you would like to discuss appointing us as your Executor.

Step 3 - draw up or update your Will

Visit a legal adviser to draw up or update your Will. If you don't have one, you can find one through the Law Society or STEP. If you're including a gift to us, please use our suggested will wording.

Step 4 - safely store your Will

Make sure your Will is stored in a safe place and that someone you trust knows where it is. It's also important to make a copy of your Will for your own records. Your legal adviser will often store your original Will free of charge, or you can use your local Probate Registry.

Step 5 - complete our pledge form

If you do decide to remember us in your Will, thank you. Gifts in Wills make up over half of the funds we rely on for our work with animals. This means it's incredibly valuable for us to know your intentions, so if you are happy to share, please use our online pledge form or download a pledge form to let us know.

It's so easy to do

Once I'd decided to make my Will and leave a gift to the RSPCA I just called my solicitor to get things started. Don't be put off by the thought of making or amending your Will. When you contact your solicitor, just let them know who you'd like to leave a gift to. You can decide to leave a percentage of your assets or a lump sum - it's up to you.

Carrie Giles, London

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