Four wills are important when exploring Elgar's financial affairs. It is curious, however, that although these wills are seen to be significant in the Elgar literature, no detailed analysis has ever taken place, nor have received assumptions been questioned. This is especially so in relation to the consequences of Elgar's marriage on 8 May 1889.

The will of Alice Elgar's mother, who died on 30 May 1887, revealed a great deal. The probate value of her estate was £7,946 (around £857,000 in 2011 pounds). There were a number of important provisions that affected Alice. First, she was left all her mother's personal and household effects, together with a legacy of £200. Second, her mother left £2,500 in trust, with the income going to Alice. There was, however, a considerable sting in the tail. This trust was to remain in place unless Alice got married, in which case the £2,500 went to her brother, Stanley Napier Roberts, absolutely. The implication of this must surely have been that Alice was expected either not to marry, or to marry a suitable man who could support her financially. As this was not so, she made a considerable financial sacrifice in marrying Elgar. Third, there were important provisions to do with Hazeldine House, in that it would be available for Alice's use after her mother's death; Alice had a Power of Appointment over the property, which was in trust, and any income from the property came to her.