How Often Should You Update Your Will? Key Life Events That Call for a Review

How Often Should You Update Your Will? Key Life Events That Call for a Review

Creating a will is one of the most responsible steps a person can take to ensure their loved ones are provided for after their passing. However, drafting a will is not a one-time event. Over time, life circumstances change, and those changes can affect how your estate should be distributed.

At The Law Offices of Petrovich & Kutub, we help clients maintain wills that reflect their wishes and comply with Florida law. Regularly reviewing your will helps prevent disputes and ensures that your legacy aligns with your current goals.

Updating your will should not be delayed until retirement or illness. The general recommendation is to review your estate plan every three to five years or whenever a significant life event occurs. Keeping your documents current helps confirm that your assets are distributed as you intend. Our estate planning lawyer in Florida can review your existing plan and identify updates that protect your interests and your loved ones.

Marriage, Divorce, or a New Relationship

A change in marital status is one of the most essential times to update your will. Marriage grants your spouse inheritance rights, while divorce can revoke provisions benefiting an ex-spouse. Failing to amend your will can create confusion or litigation. If you enter a new relationship, you may also wish to include that person in your estate plan.

A wills and trusts attorney can help update beneficiary designations and clarify how assets should be divided among a spouse, stepchildren, or dependents. Florida’s intestacy laws might not match your wishes, so revising your will ensures your estate passes to those you intend. Learn more about related legal services on our practice areas page.

Birth or Adoption of a Child

Welcoming a new child or grandchild is another reason to revise your will. You’ll need to add them as beneficiaries and appoint a guardian in case something happens to you before they reach adulthood. Without a designated guardian, the court will determine who takes responsibility, which may not align with your preferences.

An updated will allows you to plan for your children’s financial security. Creating a trust helps ensure assets are managed responsibly until they are ready. A probate lawyer in Florida can help structure these arrangements to protect your children’s inheritance and minimize disputes.

Death of a Beneficiary or Executor

If someone named in your will passes away, review your estate plan promptly. The death of a beneficiary, executor, or trustee can leave your will incomplete or unclear. Reassigning those roles quickly avoids problems during probate.

Sometimes, a backup beneficiary or executor is already named, but it is essential to confirm that your choices remain suitable. Relationships can change, and updating your will helps ensure your estate is distributed in accordance with your current intentions. Our attorneys can help revise your documents so every appointment remains valid under Florida law. If you need assistance updating your estate plan after the loss of a beneficiary or executor, schedule a consultation through our contact page.

Relocation or Change in Assets

Moving to another state or acquiring a new property can affect your will’s validity. Estate laws vary by state, and documents executed elsewhere may not meet Florida’s requirements. If you’ve relocated or purchased significant assets, your will should reflect those changes.

Major financial shifts, such as inheriting wealth, selling a business, or gaining new investments, also warrant updates. These adjustments balance asset distribution and help prevent future disputes. A family estate lawyer can guide you through these updates to ensure your estate plan stays compliant and accurate. Learn more about our approach on the About Us page.

Changes in Tax Laws or Family Dynamics

Tax laws affecting estate planning can change, impacting how your assets are distributed. Reviewing your will helps you take advantage of new exemptions and avoid unnecessary taxes. Family dynamics may also evolve through estrangement, reconciliation, or the addition of new dependents. Periodic reviews keep your will aligned with your values and relationships.

Our attorneys monitor updates in Florida law and can assess how new rules affect your estate. By staying proactive, you can prevent complications that often arise when families face outdated documents during probate.

Keeping Your Estate Plan Current and Effective

Keeping your will up to date is key to protecting your loved ones and preserving your intentions. Significant milestones, such as marriage, the birth of children, or relocation, can affect how your estate should be handled. Our firm provides trusted support to help ensure your will remains clear, enforceable, and aligned with your goals. At The Law Offices of Petrovich & Kutub, we are committed to helping families throughout Florida plan wisely for the future. To update your will or review your estate plan, contact us today.