How to Change Your Will in Ireland: When, How, and Cost

If your circumstances changed, your will should too. In Ireland, you can update a will either by writing a codicil (a formal amendment) or by replacing the will entirely.

When should you update your will?

• Marriage, separation, or divorce
• Birth of children or grandchildren
• Buying or selling property
• Change in executor availability
• Major tax or inheritance planning changes

Codicil vs new will

Use a codicil for small, targeted changes (for example replacing one executor). Write a new will when there are multiple changes or family complexity.

Legal requirements in Ireland

Any change must meet the same formalities as a will: in writing, signed by you, and witnessed properly. Informal notes are not enough.

Typical cost to update a will

Costs vary by complexity. A simple amendment is usually cheaper than full redrafting, but repeated codicils can create confusion and probate delays.

Best practice

• Review every 3–5 years
• Replace old copies clearly when making a new will
• Tell your executor where the latest signed version is stored

An outdated will is a legal risk for your family. If in doubt, rewrite rather than patching repeatedly.