# How to store your will safely and tell your executors > How-to · Content updated 12 September 2026 Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/how-to/store-your-will-safely-uk/ Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/how-to/store-your-will-safely-uk.md ## Quick answer Keep the signed original somewhere secure that your executors can access, and tell them where it is. Recording its location with a register is separate from storing the document. A missing original can complicate probate and may require extra evidence or legal advice. Safe storage is about both protecting the paper and making sure the right people can find it. This guide covers England and Wales options. ## Steps ### 1. Choose secure, accessible storage Options include home, your solicitor, a bank or a document-storage service. Check access after death, retrieval charges and what happens if the service closes. GOV.UK also explains the HMCTS deposit option. Source: https://www.gov.uk/make-will/writing-your-will ### 2. Check the HMCTS option if useful HMCTS provides a will-deposit service. Follow the current official packing and application instructions; the deposit fee is £24 as checked on 12 September 2026, and help with fees may be available. Processing time is separate from your preparation time. Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/store-a-will-with-the-probate-service/how-to-store-a-will-with-the-probate-service ### 3. Keep registration separate from storage A will register records where the document is held. It does not necessarily take custody of the paper. The National Will Register explains that registration and storage are different services; check the current fee before choosing it. Source: https://www.nationalwillregister.co.uk/news/the-difference-between-will-storage-and-will-registration-and-why-you-should-consider-both/ ### 4. Tell the executors where the original is Provide the storage location, provider contact details and any reference or access instructions. Keep a separate private record with other important documents. Avoid a situation where the only access information is stored inside the same inaccessible safe. ### 5. Keep the storage record current If you change your will or move the original, tell the executors and update any register entry. Follow advice about retaining or cancelling earlier documents; do not destroy the current will before a replacement is properly completed. ## Common pitfalls - Registering the location but leaving the original somewhere insecure. - Assuming a scan always replaces the signed original for probate. - Paying for storage without checking retrieval and closure arrangements. - Moving the original without updating executor instructions. ## Frequently asked questions ### Is will registration compulsory? No general registration requirement applies to a standard England and Wales will. Registration of its location is an optional way to help it be found. ### Does a missing original automatically mean the will was revoked? Not in every case. A missing original can raise questions and evidence requirements; executors should obtain advice about the circumstances. ### Does the National Will Register store the paper? Its registration service records where a will is held. Registration and physical storage are separate arrangements. ### How much is the HMCTS deposit fee? The official guidance lists £24 as checked on 12 September 2026. Confirm the current fee and application instructions before sending the will. ## Sources - [GOV.UK: where to keep a will](https://www.gov.uk/make-will/writing-your-will) - [HMCTS: depositing a will](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/store-a-will-with-the-probate-service/how-to-store-a-will-with-the-probate-service) - [National Will Register: registration versus storage](https://www.nationalwillregister.co.uk/news/the-difference-between-will-storage-and-will-registration-and-why-you-should-consider-both/) --- Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.