An estate plan is not necessarily something you can fix in place and then forget. When your life undergoes a significant change, you will probably want to make some adjustments to ensure that your plan still functions accordingly. Let’s review a few major life events that provide good reasons to update your estate plan.
MARRIAGE OR DIVORCE. The presence or absence of a spouse could have a tremendous impact on how your estate is eventually divided. If you get married, you’ll want to ensure your spouse is cared for after you pass on. Of course, if you get divorced, you will probably want to re-allocate this money to another beneficiary.
CHILDREN OR ADOPTION. Children are awesome, whether they are your biological children, stepchildren, or children by adoption. Revisit your Will and other documents to make sure they include all of your children as you would like. State intestacy laws might ensure that each of your children can receive something from your estate, but the law may not divide your assets the way you want if you don’t have a written estate plan in place.
BUYING OR SELLING A HOME. The purchase or sale of real estate can dramatically impact the value and liquidity of your estate. It has a trickle-down effect, affecting the inheritance that each of your beneficiaries can expect to receive. After purchasing real estate, you may also want to consider establishing a Revocable Living Trust, especially if you own property in more than one state. With a Revocable Living Trust, your property could be transferred directly to your beneficiaries after your death. It could also ensure that your house and property don’t wind up mired in the probate process after your passing.
NEW FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS. Changes in your finances, such as receiving an inheritance, might prompt you to open new financial accounts. It should be reflected in your estate plan so that your Personal Representative will have an accurate listing of your financial assets, and the money in these accounts can be properly distributed to your beneficiaries.
STARTING, BUYING, OR SELLING A BUSINESS. Business succession planning provides an outline of the way that your business is to be managed. You may need to establish or update your plan to avoid confusion when changes in business leadership occur.
MOVING TO A NEW STATE. When you move to another state, you should also plan to review your estate documents. Since laws vary from state to state, there are no guarantees your estate planning documents fulfill the requirements of your new home.
DEATH. The sad truth is there is always the possibility you may outlive some people named in your estate planning documents. Whether it is a beneficiary, Personal Representative, Trustee, appointed Guardian, or attorney-in-fact, make sure to update your relevant estate planning documents to fill any gaps created by the unfortunate loss of a friend, partner, or family member.
MEDICAL CONDITION. A serious medical diagnosis or sudden injury should prompt an urgent review of your estate planning needs. It may be time to change your designations regarding who you want to handle health care decisions or financial business if you become incapacitated. Make sure your estate planning documents reflect your wishes and that you have completed all the documents you need.
CHANGING YOUR MIND. What you want for your estate plan today might not be what you want in the future. If you’ve had a change of heart regarding how you want your estate handled, work with your lawyer to make sure your wishes are clear.
Planning for the future is an act of kindness for your loved ones. Let us help you through the estate planning process and prepare you for whatever lies ahead. If we can be of service to you, your family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.