It's National Estate Planning Awareness Week. While it may not be as fun as picking apples or pumpkins, it's a chance to talk about something that touches every family: preparing for the future. This week is about starting the conversation, not finishing it. Even a small first step - like making a will, updating your beneficiary designations, or talking to a loved one about your wishes -can make a world of difference. 

Just like regular health check-ups keep you in good shape, your estate plan needs a periodic wellness visit too. We recommend reviewing it with us every three to five years—or sooner if life throws you a curveball. Think of it as preventive maintenance for your legacy. After all, prevention is the best cure.

Of course, life doesn't always run on a tidy schedule. Major milestones or unexpected changes can mean it's time to take another look at your plan. Here are some of the most common times when picking up the phone to call us just makes sense.

Marriage

First of all—congratulations! Marriage is a big step, and it brings new ways of sharing finances, property, and responsibilities. This is the perfect moment to revisit your estate plan.
We'll help you review your will or trust, update financial and medical powers of attorney, and make sure your beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance, and investments reflect your new life together.

If this is a second marriage, or you have children from a previous relationship, updating your plan is especially critical to protect everyone you love the way you intend.

Birth or Adoption

Welcoming a new child is one of life's most beautiful milestones. It's also the perfect time to think about the future you want for your growing family.
We can help you create or update a plan that provides for your child financially and designates a trusted guardian if something unexpected happens. While these aren't easy conversations, they're some of the most important ones you'll ever have.

New Job

New opportunities often come with new benefits, pay structures, and retirement plans. That means it's time to ensure your estate plan still fits your financial life.
We'll review beneficiary designations and make sure your plan reflects your new compensation or benefits so everything works together seamlessly.

Job Loss

Losing a job can be stressful enough without financial uncertainty. Reviewing your estate plan can bring peace of mind and help you adjust to your new situation.
We'll help you evaluate changes to employer-provided benefits, retirement accounts, and other financial shifts that might affect your long-term plans.

Retirement

You've reached a major milestone! Retirement often means a lifestyle change and a new relationship with your finances. As you begin drawing from your retirement accounts, it's the perfect time to revisit your estate plan.
We can help you ensure your plan still aligns with your new goals, protect your assets, and make sure your financial and medical powers of attorney reflect your current wishes—especially if you plan to travel more or spend time in multiple states.

Moving to a New State

If you've recently moved, your estate plan may need an update to comply with your new state's laws.
If you're new here, we can review your existing plan to make sure everything aligns with local rules. If you've moved away, we can connect you with a trusted attorney in your new state.
And don't forget—your new home should also be properly titled in your trust (if you have one). We'll handle the details so your property is protected and properly aligned with your estate plan.

Divorce

Divorce is one of life's hardest transitions, but it's also a crucial time to protect your financial future.
While your divorce is pending, we can help you understand what changes you can and can't make to your estate plan. Once it's finalized, we'll work with you to update your will or trust, revise beneficiary designations, and ensure your ex-spouse no longer has the ability to make decisions or inherit from you—unless required under your marital agreement.
We'll also help make sure any child or spousal support obligations are built into your plan the right way.

Death of a Loved One

Losing someone dear is never easy. Take the time you need to grieve and be with family. When you're ready, reviewing your estate plan ensures everything remains current.
You may need to update beneficiaries, appoint new trusted decision-makers, or adjust inheritances in light of your loved one's passing. We'll guide you through the process gently and thoughtfully.

In Summary

Your estate plan isn't a “set it and forget it” document—it's a living reflection of your life and your wishes. As life changes, so should your plan. Whether it's a joyful milestone or a challenging moment, we're here to help you make sure your plan continues to protect what matters most. Give a call.