Creating a will is a smart move—but writing it once and forgetting about it? That’s a mistake.
Life changes, and so should your estate plan.
Whether it’s a marriage, a new child, or a major change in assets, there are many situations that call for a will update to make sure your wishes are still legally protected and clearly documented.
In this guide, we’ll explain when and why you should update your will, and how to do it properly.
📜 Why Is Updating a Will Important?
A will isn’t a “set it and forget it” document.
An outdated will can:
- Leave out new family members
- Misallocate your assets
- Appoint the wrong executor or guardian
- Lead to confusion, disputes, or court battles
💡 Keeping your will current helps protect your loved ones—and ensures your final wishes are honored.
🕒 When Should You Update Your Will?
Here are the most common triggers that mean it’s time to revise your will:
💍 1. Marriage or Divorce
- Getting married? You may want to add your spouse as a beneficiary or executor.
- Getting divorced? You likely want to remove your ex-spouse from the will—immediately.
Some states automatically revoke ex-spouse provisions—but don’t rely on that. Update it.
👶 2. Birth or Adoption of a Child or Grandchild
You’ll want to:
- Name a guardian for your child
- Create a trust for minors
- Add new heirs to your will
Failing to include new children can result in them being left out of your estate unintentionally.
💔 3. Death of a Beneficiary or Executor
If someone named in your will passes away, you’ll need to:
- Name a new executor
- Reassign that portion of your estate
- Update any backup guardians or trustees
💰 4. Significant Change in Assets
If you:
- Start or sell a business
- Buy/sell real estate
- Receive an inheritance
- Experience a major increase or loss of wealth
…it’s time to review and possibly restructure your will to reflect your current estate.
📍 5. Moving to a New State
Estate laws vary by state. If you’ve moved:
- Your current will may still be valid, but not optimal
- State laws on taxes, spousal rights, or witnesses may differ
It’s smart to have an attorney licensed in your new state review your documents.
🏦 6. Changes in Tax Laws or Estate Planning Goals
If:
- Federal or state tax laws change
- You want to reduce estate taxes
- You want to donate to charity or change your giving strategy
…you may need to revise your will or add new documents like trusts or power of attorney.
👥 7. Changes in Relationships
If:
- You’ve had a falling out with a beneficiary
- You want to include someone new (like a close friend, grandchild, or caregiver)
- You’ve reconciled with someone previously excluded
A will update lets you reflect your current relationships and intentions.
⏳ 8. It’s Been More Than 3–5 Years
Even if no major life event has occurred, it’s smart to review your will every few years.
Things change—laws, finances, relationships—and you’ll want to make sure your plan still fits your life.
📝 How to Legally Update Your Will
There are two main ways to update your will:
🔹 1. Create a Codicil
- A short amendment to your will
- Must be signed and witnessed like a full will
- Ideal for small updates
🔹 2. Write a New Will
- Best for major life changes
- Automatically revokes the old will
- Helps avoid confusion or contradictions
🧠 Pro tip: Always destroy all copies of the outdated will once the new one is signed.
🧠 You May Wanna Check Out:
- Power of Attorney: What It Is and How It Works
- What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
- Estate Planning Checklist: Everything You Need to Do
✅ Final Thoughts
Your will should reflect your current life and values—not the version of you from five or ten years ago.
Think of updating your will as regular maintenance for your legacy. It protects your family, prevents confusion, and gives you peace of mind.
Whenever life changes—you should ask, “Does my will still reflect what I want?”
If not, it’s time for an update.
