Elderly Expats Are Being Urged To Make Wills Due To Coronavirus Risks

Fear of getting unlucky and catching the coronavirus has caused a sharp increase in the numbers of British expats making a will.

For the majority of expats, making a will is one of the last tasks on the agenda after moving to a new country, especially if English-speaking lawyers are thin on the ground and the laws regarding inheritance are drastically different than in the home country. However, it seems the widespread pandemic has focused expats’ minds on the possibility of becoming victims, as the demand for wills has increased hugely over the past month.

The scary daily reports of new infections and overnight deaths as well as the high number of expat volunteers determined to help wherever possible seem to have concentrated minds on the reality of the risk. Also, social distancing and partial lockdowns have meant expats have far more time on their hands and can give aid where needed, even if it’s just shopping for those under the compulsory two-week quarantines. Should the worst happen and infection occur, expats who’ve made wills can at least be assured their nearest and dearest in the home country will be contacted and their wishes be respected.

Where there are bank accounts and valuable assets such as property, vehicles, collections and cash, disposal as requested of everything with sentimental and financial value can be done by beneficiaries without stress and according to your wishes. For family members, legal hurdles will be minimised, and tax issues can be dealt with according to local laws, and powers of attorney can take care of the management of financial affairs.