Westfield FS and Wills

16/10/2026

What happens to a mortgage when someone dies?

A mortgage does not automatically disappear following a death. What happens next can depend on whether the mortgage was held jointly or solely, whether life insurance is available and whether the surviving homeowner can afford the repayments.

Our latest guide explains the practical steps families may need to take and the options that could be available:

What happens to a mortgage when someone dies? Learn how sole and joint mortgages, life insurance, probate and affordability affect the family home.

09/10/2026

What happens when someone needs to make or update a Will but no longer has the mental capacity to do it themselves?
In certain circumstances, the Court of Protection can approve a statutory Will on their behalf. However, the process is not automatic—the court must consider the person’s wishes, relationships, estate and best interests.
Our latest article explains when a statutory Will might be needed, who can apply and what evidence the court will expect:

06/10/2026

Have you collected several pensions from different jobs?
Bringing them together could make your retirement savings easier to manage and may reduce charges. However, transferring an older pension could also mean losing valuable guarantees, protected tax-free cash or an earlier pension age.
Our latest guide explains the benefits, risks and checks to make before consolidating:

Should you consolidate your pensions? Explore the benefits, risks, charges and valuable guarantees to check before transferring.

30/09/2026

Can you stay in the family home after separating from your partner?
Possible options include buying out your former partner, transferring the mortgage into one name, remortgaging or keeping the property jointly for an agreed period. However, the lender must be satisfied that the new arrangement remains affordable.
Our latest guide explains the options and the checks to make first:

Can you keep the family home after separation? Learn about buying out an ex-partner, affordability checks, joint mortgages and remortgaging.

28/09/2026

Retirement does not always begin with one final day at work.
Many people gradually reduce their hours and use pension income to support the transition. However, taking a pension while still earning could affect your tax, future contributions and the amount available later in retirement.
Our latest guide explains what to consider before combining your salary and pension income:

25/09/2026

Do stepchildren automatically inherit from a stepparent?

Even after a close relationship lasting many years, a stepchild will not normally inherit under the intestacy rules unless they were legally adopted by the person who died.

Our latest article explains what happens without a Will and how blended families can make clear arrangements for the people they consider family.

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Do stepchildren inherit from stepparents automatically? Learn how intestacy affects blended families and how a Will can protect their inheritance.Suggested category: Wills

23/09/2026

Do all your children have to inherit the same amount?

An equal division may feel simplest, but families do not always have equal circumstances. Previous financial help, caring responsibilities, vulnerability or a family business can all influence what a parent considers fair.

Our latest article explains when children can be left different amounts—and how careful planning may reduce the risk of confusion and family disputes.

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16/09/2026

Can a Will be changed after someone has died?

A Deed of Variation may allow a beneficiary to redirect some or all of an inheritance—for example, to provide for someone who was left out or pass assets to the next generation.

Our latest guide explains who must agree and why the two-year deadline matters.

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14/09/2026

Received an inheritance and unsure where to start?

There is no need to decide everything at once. Protecting the money, reviewing your finances and setting clear priorities can help you make choices that fit your life.

Our latest guide explains the first steps:

Unsure what to do with inheritance money? Learn the first steps, from protecting your cash and checking tax to reviewing debts and planning for the future.

11/09/2026

Can the person dealing with your estate also inherit from it?

In England and Wales, an executor can also be a beneficiary—and this is common when appointing a spouse, partner or adult child. However, the two roles remain separate and there is an important witnessing rule to understand.

Our latest article explains what an executor must do and how to choose the right person.

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