Thy Will Be Done SL

The Usufruct Clause in Your Spanish Will

If you own property in Spain and want to ensure your chosen beneficiaries remain protected after your death, a usufruct clause is something you should seriously consider.

A usufruct clause can help prevent situations where:

• A surviving partner remarries
• A new Will is created later
• Intended beneficiaries are unintentionally disinherited

If you already have a usufruct clause in place but have since moved address, your Will may need updating because the clause may no longer be valid.

Powers of Attorney & Advance Directives

People are living longer than ever before, which also means the likelihood of dementia or loss of mental capacity has increased significantly. Planning ahead now can protect both you and your family from major difficulties later.

This allows someone you trust to manage your finances, handle legal matters and make important decisions on your behalf if you are no longer able to do so yourself.

An Advance Directive gives someone you trust the authority to communicate your wishes regarding:

• Medical treatment
• Resuscitation decisions
• Trial medications
• End-of-life care

Stepchildren & Spanish Inheritance Tax

Many British families in Spain are unaware that stepchildren do not automatically receive the same inheritance tax benefits as biological children under Spanish law. This can lead to:

• Unexpected inheritance tax bills
• Significant financial burdens
• Reduced inheritance for loved ones

Formal adoption in Spain may allow stepchildren to gain the same legal status as biological children, accessing the same inheritance tax advantages. This is an important area where professional legal advice is essential.

Don't Forget Your UK Assets

Many British expats living in Spain still own UK bank accounts, property in Britain, investments or pensions. If that applies to you, having an up-to-date UK Will is absolutely essential.

Without one, you could die intestate in the UK, creating unnecessary delays, legal complications and emotional stress for your beneficiaries.

• UK Wills for the correct legal jurisdiction
• Trusts for additional family protection
• Coordinating UK and Spanish estate planning together

Priority Client Cover

For just €4.99 per month, Priority Client Cover helps make life dramatically easier for your family after your death.

The UK office handles:

• NIE number applications
• Probate support in English
• Communication with the Spanish office and authorities

Probate fees are 1.16% plus IVA, compared to the 3 to 4% commonly charged by many Spanish solicitors. This could save families thousands of euros.

• No long-term contract
• Monthly direct debit payments
• Cover starts immediately
• Easy cancellation if you return to the UK
• For couples, surviving partner cover continues automatically