By Courtney Wall
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August 13, 2024
When Should You Update Your Estate Planning Documents? Estate planning is not a "set it and forget it" task. While creating a will, trust, or other estate planning documents is a crucial step in securing your financial legacy, it’s equally important to keep these documents up to date. Life is dynamic, and various changes can render your current estate plan inadequate or outdated. Here are some key moments when you should consider updating your estate planning documents: 1. Major Life Events Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, or the death of a loved one are pivotal moments that often necessitate an update to your estate plan. These events can change your family structure, leading to a need for different provisions in your will or trust. For instance, you may want to add a new spouse or child as a beneficiary or remove an ex-spouse from your documents. 2. Significant Changes in Assets If you acquire or sell major assets like a home, business, or investment portfolio, your estate plan should reflect these changes. New assets need to be included, and instructions regarding their distribution should be clear. Similarly, if you experience a significant change in your financial situation, such as receiving an inheritance or facing financial difficulties, your plan may need to be adjusted to align with your new reality. 3. Changes in Relationships Over time, your relationships with people may evolve. You might become closer to some individuals or drift apart from others. This can influence whom you trust with responsibilities such as being an executor, trustee, or guardian for your children. Updating your documents ensures that your estate is managed by those who align with your current wishes and values. 4. Health Changes A serious illness or decline in health is another important reason to review your estate planning documents. You might need to revise your healthcare directives, power of attorney, or living will to ensure that your medical and financial decisions are made according to your current preferences. 5. Legal and Tax Law Changes Estate laws and tax regulations are subject to change, and such changes can impact your estate plan. Regularly reviewing your documents with the help of an estate planning attorney can ensure that your plan remains compliant with current laws and takes full advantage of any beneficial legal provisions. 6. Periodic Review Even if none of the above events have occurred, it’s wise to review your estate plan every 3-5 years. A periodic check can help ensure that your documents still reflect your wishes and that any minor adjustments needed can be made before they become significant issues. In conclusion, estate planning is an ongoing process that requires attention and care. By keeping your documents up to date, you ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and that your loved ones are taken care of, no matter how life changes.