If you’re wondering, “How often should I be updating my will?” or “Why is it important to review my estate plan?”, you’re not alone. These are common questions among clients in Montgomery County, Bucks County, and beyond.
Your will is the cornerstone of your estate plan. But life changes—and your will should change with it. Whether you’re getting married, welcoming a new child, moving to a new home, or retiring, keeping your will up to date is crucial for protecting your assets and honoring your wishes. Yet many people mistakenly assume that writing a will is a “one-and-done” task.
In this post, we’ll cover why it’s important to update your will, when you should consider making changes, and how regular updates can keep your estate planning checklist current—even if you don’t think you’re “old enough” to revisit it yet.
Why Keeping Your Will Current Matters
Your will outlines how your assets—including your home, savings, personal property, and business interests—will be distributed after you pass away. It can also name guardians for your minor children and designate an executor to carry out your wishes.
But as life evolves, so do your priorities and circumstances. Outdated wills can cause confusion, disputes among heirs, tax issues, or even unintended disinheritance of loved ones. According to AARP, periodically updating your will ensures it reflects your current wishes and life situation.
Working with an experienced estate attorney in Montgomery County, PA can help you avoid common pitfalls and maintain an estate plan that evolves with you.
Key Times to Amend Your Will
When should you amend your will? Here are common life events and milestones that signal it’s time to revisit your estate planning documents:
1. Marriage, Divorce, or Remarriage
Changes in marital status can have significant legal implications on your estate. You’ll want to update your will to reflect:
- A new spouse
- Removal of an ex-spouse
- Blended family considerations (stepchildren, new guardianship preferences)
Learn more about the importance of a will when family dynamics change.
2. Birth or Adoption of Children or Grandchildren
Adding new beneficiaries is a key reason to update your will. It ensures your children or grandchildren are included in inheritance provisions, guardianship appointments, and trust arrangements.
3. Death of a Beneficiary or Executor
If a named beneficiary or executor passes away, you’ll need to revise your will to appoint new individuals or redistribute your assets accordingly.
4. Changes in Financial Situation
Major shifts in your finances—selling a business, acquiring real estate, receiving an inheritance—should trigger a will review to reflect your new portfolio.
5. Moving to a New State
State laws impact estate planning. If you move from Philadelphia County to Lehigh County, for example, an elder law firm can help review your will to ensure it aligns with Pennsylvania probate and inheritance rules.
6. Tax Law Changes
Periodic tax reforms at the federal or state level may affect your estate’s value or distribution. An update can optimize your plan under current laws.
How Often Should You Update Your Will?
In general, it’s wise to review your will every 3 to 5 years—even if you haven’t experienced a major life event. An elder law attorney can help assess whether updates are needed based on:
- Life changes
- Family structure shifts
- Asset growth
- Legal updates
If you’re searching for the “best estate lawyer near me” or a reputable elder law firm in Philadelphia and surrounding counties, look for one with deep experience in estate planning and Pennsylvania law.
Why Its Never Too Early to Update Your Will
You don’t have to be retired or elderly to update your will.
In fact:
- Young professionals with growing business interests or real estate holdings should have a current will.
- Parents in towns like Collegeville, King of Prussia, or Conshohocken need to plan for guardianship.
- Mid-career families in Ambler, Ardmore, or along the Main Line should ensure their estate reflects evolving wealth and family dynamics.
Partnering with the best estate planning attorney in Montgomery County, PA gives you the confidence that your loved ones are protected—no matter your age.
Keeping Your Estate Plan Current
Updating your will is a vital part of maintaining an effective estate plan. It keeps your estate planning checklist in sync with your life, protects your assets, and helps avoid costly legal disputes down the road.
If you’re unsure when or how to update your will, Mittman Law is here to help. As a trusted elder law firm serving Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, Bucks County, and surrounding areas, we guide individuals and families through all aspects of estate planning.
Whether you need to amend your will, update beneficiaries, or optimize your full estate plan, our team is ready to assist. Contact us today through our FAQs or contact page to schedule your consultation.