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Unusual Things Left in a Will

Flat lay of a will surrounded by quirky personal belongings symbolising unusual items left in wills.

Wills are typically serious or weighty topics that are not discussed until a death or illness occurs. We think of wills as a way to give assets, such as cash, real estate, jewellery, etc. But occasionally, the strangest things are left in a will. Even though they might seem peculiar, these oddities might have significant meaning for the departed. Given that our loved ones might not understand the significance of certain items to us, this emphasises the importance of creating and revising your will. As they say, what is trash to one is treasure to another. Here, we look at some of the most bizarre items ever left in a will. 

To help ensure your will remains up to date, check our guide on how often you should review it.

Nasty List

Except for one granddaughter, to whom she left a tiny amount of money, a grandmother left a single cent along with a list of offensive remarks for each family member. Imagine being able to voice your opinions from beyond the grave!

Manure Spreader

Following a disagreement on possible inheritance, a father bequeathed a manure spreader to his son in his will. 

Money to a Goldfish

An person left £100,000 to her pet goldfish. The relationship between a pet and its owner should never be undervalued! Regretfully, it is illegal to leave money to a pet. You can put money into a trust to care for the pet, but the beneficiary must be a human.

For official UK guidance on revising a will and how changes can be made legally, see the government page here.

Socks

Indeed, a pair of festive toe-huggers was given as a bequest by someone. They must have had sentimental significance.

Hair

Napoleon expressed his desire for his family members to share his hair.

Other Parculiar Things

A kidney stone, a pair of eyes, a prostate, and a Toblerone are among the other reported odd objects. 

Creating a Will

It’s time to organise your belongings if this list has motivated you to consider what you will be leaving behind. Everybody has slightly different assets and wishes, and a will is personal.

For a handy step-by-step guide to planning what to leave and to whom, visit the MoneyHelper resources.

It’s only normal to want something that holds value for you, like a decent home, but make sure to express your desires clearly, since some people might not value the more esoteric things. Gifts in a will do not necessarily need to be monetary. Sentimental worth may be equally, if not more, significant. Additionally, A will remove any doubt and stop the family from misusing your belongings.

Contact WillFinda on 01376 350976. When you’re ready, visit our full service page on WillFinda to register, store or write your will.

Do you need help?

Complete the form with as much information as you can and one of our friendly advisors will be in touch. Alternatively call us on 01376 350 966.

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