Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your estate plan. Just as you schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, your estate plan also needs periodic reviews to ensure it still reflects your wishes and your life’s current circumstances.
At Sabrina Winters, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we recommend reviewing your estate plan every three to five years, or sooner if you experience a major life event. Think of it as a preventive check-up it’s always easier to make small adjustments now than to fix problems later.
Why Reviewing Your Estate Plan Is Essential
An estate plan is not a one-and-done document. It’s a living plan that should evolve as your life, relationships, and finances change. Outdated plans can lead to confusion, delays, or unintended outcomes — and in some cases, loved ones may not receive the protection you intended.
Regular reviews help ensure your:
- Wishes remain clear and enforceable under North Carolina law
- Beneficiaries and executors are still appropriate choices
- Financial and healthcare decisions reflect your current situation
- Assets and titles are correctly aligned with your plan
Life Events That Require an Estate Plan Review
Certain moments in life should trigger a call to your estate planning attorney. Here’s when it’s most critical to revisit your documents:
Marriage
Marriage brings new opportunities — and new responsibilities. You’ll want to review your:
- Will or trust to include your spouse
- Beneficiary designations for life insurance and retirement accounts
- Financial and medical powers of attorney to ensure your spouse can make decisions if needed
If it’s a second marriage, updating your plan is even more important — especially if you have children from a previous relationship.
Birth or Adoption of a Child
Welcoming a new child is one of life’s greatest joys. It’s also a reminder to plan for their future:
- Name a guardian for your child in case something happens to you.
- Create or update your trust to manage their inheritance responsibly.
- Consider how and when you want your child to receive financial support.
New Job or Career Change
A new job may come with different benefits, retirement plans, or life insurance policies. Make sure:
- Beneficiaries are correctly listed on all accounts.
- Your estate plan reflects your new financial situation — whether your income has increased or decreased.
Loss of a Job
Employment changes can affect your benefits and financial security. Reviewing your plan ensures:
- Any loss of employer-provided life insurance is addressed.
- Your retirement and savings strategies remain consistent with your goals.
Retirement
Retirement is a major milestone — and a time to make sure your estate plan supports your next chapter. You may want to:
- Review your retirement accounts and distribution plans.
- Update your powers of attorney before traveling.
- Revisit your trusts and long-term care directives.
Moving to a New State
Estate laws vary from state to state. If you’ve recently moved:
- Have your documents reviewed to ensure they comply with North Carolina law.
- Update your deed or trust to include your new property.
If you’ve moved from another state, our firm can review your plan to make sure you’re fully protected under local regulations.
Divorce
Divorce is emotionally and financially challenging, but updating your estate plan afterward is critical. We can help you:
- Remove your ex-spouse as a beneficiary or decision-maker.
- Update your will, trust, and powers of attorney.
- Ensure any child support or maintenance requirements are properly reflected.
Death of a Loved One
After a loss, it’s important to update your estate plan to:
- Remove the deceased person from beneficiary designations or roles like executor or trustee.
- Appoint new trusted decision-makers where needed.
Receiving an Inheritance
Inheriting property or money can change your financial situation significantly. A review helps you:
- Protect inherited assets through trusts or updated planning.
- Reevaluate tax strategies or beneficiary distributions.
How Often Should You Review Your Estate Plan?
Even if none of these major events occur, it’s wise to revisit your estate plan every three to five years. Laws change, financial goals evolve, and family dynamics shift. A quick review ensures your plan always reflects your true intentions
Your estate plan is one of the most important tools you have to protect your loved ones — but only if it’s up to date. Whether you’ve experienced a life change or it’s simply been a few years, now is the perfect time to schedule your review.
📞 Call +1 704-843-1446
💻 Visit sabrinawinterslaw.com
At Sabrina Winters, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we’re here to help Charlotte families ensure their estate plans evolve with them — through every season of life.