You made a will, great! You’re ahead of most people.

But here’s the truth: An outdated estate plan can be just as risky as having none at all.

Your will (and any associated documents) should evolve as your life does. If any of these events have happened since you last reviewed your estate plan, it might be time for an update.

1. Marriage or divorce

Whether you’re blending families or parting ways, your estate plan needs to reflect your new relationship status.

• In marriage: Have you named your spouse as a beneficiary? What about powers of attorney?
  
• After divorce: Does your will still name your ex as executor or decision-maker?

Your documents should reflect where your relationship and your priorities stand today.

2. The birth or adoption of a child

Adding a child to your family is one of the most important reasons to revisit your will. You’ll want to:

• Name a guardian
  
• Set up a trust, if applicable
  
• Update beneficiary designations
  
• Plan for future education or care

Your child’s future deserves protection and clear direction.

3. A significant change in assets

Did you buy or sell a home? Start a business? Receive an inheritance?

Any major financial shift should prompt an estate planning check-in. You want to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your plan reflects your current reality.

4. The death or disability of someone in your plan

If a named beneficiary, guardian, or executor passes away or becomes incapacitated, you’ll need to update your documents.

Your estate plan should always include people who are able and willing to serve in their roles.

5. Your children become adults

Once your children are no longer minors, you may want to revise:

• Guardianship provisions
  
• Inheritance terms (trusts vs. direct transfers)
  
• Power of attorney designations

This is also a good time to start helping them create their own basic estate plans.

6. A move to a new state

Estate planning laws vary state to state, including rules about wills, trusts, taxes, and powers of attorney.

If you’ve moved from Maryland to DC (or vice versa), or relocated entirely, it’s smart to review your plan with a local attorney to make sure everything still holds up.

7. It’s been more than 3–5 years

Even if nothing dramatic has changed, your estate plan deserves a regular refresh. Laws shift, family dynamics evolve, and your preferences may have changed.

Think of it like a wellness check for your legacy.

 Estate planning isn’t a one-time task; it’s an ongoing act of protection and intention.

If any of these events have taken place, or if your gut tells you it’s time to check in, I’m here to help. With over 20 years of experience serving families across DC and Maryland, I’ll walk you through your options with clarity, care, and strategy.

Ready to update your will or review your estate plan? Let’s make sure everything is working for your life now and for the future you want to build.