When you create an estate plan, you do so with the idea that it’ll provide you and your loved ones with peace of mind. While this is sure to happen, don’t overlook the fact that you may need to review and update your estate plan every so often.
There are many specific reasons to review your estate plan, including the following:
- The death of an important person in your life: For example, if your beneficiary has passed away, you’ll need to alter your estate plan to reflect this.
- Divorce or marriage: Either way, your estate plan is sure to change. Don’t wait a single day to review your plan and adjust it accordingly.
- Birth or adoption: If you bring a new child into your life, you’ll want to make the necessary changes to your estate plan.
- Change in guardian or personal representative: There are many reasons to make this change, such as if the person you first named has passed on.
- The acquisition of a valuable asset: This could alter your estate plan in many ways, such as who is in line to receive the asset upon your death.
Along with the above, the passage of time alone is reason enough to review your estate plan. You may not make any changes, but at least you’ll better understand where things stand and what the future could bring.
As you review your estate plan, don’t turn a blind eye to any areas that require your attention. Anything you put off today could impact you and your family in the future.