Updating Your Estate Plan In Massachusetts
Creating an estate plan is an important step toward protecting your wishes and providing for the people you care about. However, your plan should not remain unchanged forever. As your personal circumstances evolve, working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help ensure you update your estate plan so it continues to reflect your goals and complies with Massachusetts law.
At Curley Law Firm LLP, we help individuals and families in Wakefield, Massachusetts, review and revise estate planning documents as life changes occur. As Certified Elder Law Attorneys (CELAs) and board-certified specialists, we take an educational approach to planning, helping clients make informed decisions that support both their current needs and their long-term objectives.
When Should You Update Your Estate Plan?
Many major life events should prompt you to review your estate planning documents. Waiting too long to make changes to an estate plan could leave outdated instructions in place or result in someone serving in a role you would no longer choose.
You should consider reviewing your estate plan after:
- Marriage or remarriage.
- Divorce or legal separation.
- The birth or adoption of a child or grandchild.
- The death or incapacity of a named executor, trustee or healthcare proxy.
- Moving to or from Massachusetts.
- A significant change in your health.
- A substantial increase or decrease in your assets.
- Retirement, the sale of a business or other major financial changes.
Even if none of these events have occurred, reviewing your estate plan every few years can help ensure it still reflects your wishes.
Which Estate Planning Documents Should Be Reviewed?
Updating an estate plan involves more than changing a will. A thorough review may include:
- Trust documents
- Durable power of attorney
- Healthcare proxy
- Beneficiary designations
- The individuals you have chosen to serve as executor or trustee
Working with an estate planning lawyer can help identify outdated provisions, coordinate your documents and confirm they continue to support your overall estate planning goals. Regular reviews can also help account for changes in your family, finances or applicable laws that may affect your long-term plan.
Review Your Estate Plan With The Help Of An Experienced Attorney
Life rarely stays the same, and your estate plan should keep pace. Whether you have recently experienced a major life event or simply have not reviewed your documents in several years, Curley Law Firm LLP can help you evaluate your current plan and determine whether updates are appropriate.
Dial 866-406-8582 or send us an email to book a confidential appointment. We are also available via Zoom and video call.