A will is not a set-it-and-forget-it document. As your family, finances, and plans change, the instructions you wrote earlier may no longer reflect your wishes. Marriage, divorce, a new child, or a move are good reasons to pause and review it. You may not need to rewrite everything, but checking key details can help you spot outdated choices and decide whether to make a formal change.
After Marriage or Divorce
Marriage can change who you want to inherit property, who should manage your estate, and how your plans fit with your spouse’s wishes. Review the people named in your will, including your personal representative and beneficiaries. Also check whether other documents, such as beneficiary designations on accounts or insurance, match your current intentions; those may be controlled separately from your will.
After divorce, review any provisions naming your former spouse, as well as gifts, decision-making roles, and references to shared property. The effect of divorce on a will can depend on state law and the document’s wording. Don’t assume every provision changes automatically or that your remaining instructions still work as intended. Ask a qualified attorney to explain what applies to your situation and whether a new will is advisable.
When a Child Joins Your Family
A new child is a prompt to review your will, whether through birth or adoption. Parents often use a will to nominate a guardian for a minor child if both parents are unable to care for them. Consider who could take on that responsibility, whether the person is willing, and whether you should name an alternate in case your first choice cannot serve.
Check how your will handles property intended for a child. A minor generally cannot manage an inheritance directly, so your plan may need to address who manages assets and when the child can receive them. Review these choices as your family grows and circumstances change. A will can express your wishes, but other planning documents may also be useful depending on your needs.
After a Move
Moving to another state is a strong reason to have your estate plan reviewed. State laws differ, and a will that was properly prepared where you lived before may need updates to fit your new state’s rules or your current circumstances. Even within Minnesota, a move can change practical details such as where records are kept and which local professionals can help carry out your plan.
A move can also bring changes in property, finances, or family arrangements. Check property descriptions, beneficiaries, the person you named to handle your estate, and how your instructions fit your current assets. If you own real estate in more than one state, ask an attorney how that property should be addressed. Keep a signed copy accessible and tell the appropriate person where to find it.
Other Reasons to Review
A review may also make sense after a major change in finances, the death or incapacity of someone named in your will, or a shift in your preferences. For example, a personal representative you trusted years ago may no longer be available. Confirm that each person still agrees to serve and that you have a suitable backup.
When reviewing your will, check names, contact details, gifts, beneficiaries, and who will manage your estate. Avoid handwritten edits or informal notes as a substitute for a properly executed amendment or new will; they may create confusion or fail to meet legal requirements. If you are unsure whether a change is significant, get advice before changing or revoking the document.
Review your will whenever a major life change could affect who inherits, who cares for your children, or who handles your estate. Gather your current documents and note the updates you want to discuss. North Shore Wills can help you consider whether your plan still fits your wishes and what steps may be appropriate.