Since you never know what might happen to you and when it might happen, it is a smart idea to create an estate plan no matter your age. However, between now and the time you die, your life may change in many unpredictable ways. As a result, the estate plan you create today may not always reflect your wishes.
Fortunately, you have the ability to make changes to at least some of your estate planning documents, such as your will, to reflect your current circumstances. Making changes to your estate plan following certain life events is always a smart move.
1. Moving to a new state
Requirements for estate planning documents can vary according to state law. Therefore, if you made a plan before moving to New York, your documents may not meet the requirements for validity under New York’s requirements. You may have to make changes so that the documents are in compliance with applicable regulations in your new state of residence.
2. Getting married
If you wrote a will before you got married, you may have made bequests to family members such as parents or siblings that you now wish your spouse to receive. While the law provides some protections for your spouse, the fact of your marriage does not change the provisions of your estate plan, and you need to make changes yourself to reflect your current circumstances.
Updating your estate plan may be even more important upon a remarriage. You do not want your ex to benefit at the expense of your current spouse.
3. Having a child
Whether a new child joins your family through birth or adoption, you should change your estate plan to include the new addition. At least as important as your child’s inheritance is naming a guardian for him or her in case you and the other parent die while your child is still a minor.