The start of a new year is a natural time to reflect, reset, and plan ahead. While many people focus on resolutions related to health, finances, or career goals, one critical task is often overlooked: reviewing and updating your estate plan. As we move into 2026, now is the perfect time to ensure your legal documents accurately reflect your wishes and protect the people you care about most.

Estate planning is not a “set it and forget it” process. Life changes, laws evolve, and even small oversights can create unnecessary stress for loved ones down the road. A simple review at the beginning of the year can provide peace of mind and help you start 2026 on solid legal footing.

Why Estate Plans Need Regular Updates

Many people assume that once they have a will or trust in place, their planning is complete. In reality, outdated estate documents can be just as problematic as having none at all. Changes in your personal life, finances, or family structure may require updates to ensure your intentions are carried out properly.

Common life events that should trigger an estate plan review include marriage or divorce, the birth or adoption of a child or grandchild, the death of a beneficiary or executor, or significant changes in assets such as purchasing a home, starting a business, or receiving an inheritance. Even changes in relationships, such as estrangement or reconciliation, may impact how you want your estate distributed.

Reviewing Your Will and Trusts

Your will is the foundation of your estate plan, but it must reflect your current circumstances. Reviewing your will ensures that beneficiaries are still accurate, guardianship designations for minor children remain appropriate, and your chosen executor is still willing and able to serve.

If you have a trust, it’s equally important to confirm that it is properly funded and aligned with your goals. Over time, assets may be acquired or sold, and those changes should be reflected in how your trust is structured. An annual or biennial review can help prevent gaps that could lead to probate complications or disputes.

Don’t Forget Powers of Attorney and Advance Directives

Estate planning isn’t only about what happens after you pass away—it also includes planning for incapacity. Financial and healthcare powers of attorney allow trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. Advance directives and living wills provide guidance about your medical preferences during serious illness or end-of-life situations.

These documents are often created once and then forgotten, but preferences can change over time. Reviewing them ensures that the people you’ve chosen are still appropriate and that your instructions reflect your current wishes.

Changes in Laws Can Affect Your Plan

Estate and probate laws can change, and even subtle legal updates may impact how your plan functions. Tax laws, exemption thresholds, and procedural requirements are not static. An estate plan that worked well years ago may benefit from updates to ensure compliance with current laws and to maximize protections for your beneficiaries.

Working with an experienced estate planning attorney helps ensure your documents are not only up to date but also legally sound under current regulations.

Start the Year With Confidence

Updating your estate plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In many cases, it’s simply a matter of reviewing existing documents and making targeted adjustments. Taking this step early in the year allows you to move forward with confidence, knowing your affairs are in order and your loved ones are protected.

At Lauenstein Law Firm, we help individuals and families review, update, and strengthen their estate plans to reflect their evolving lives and goals. Starting 2026 with a refreshed estate plan is one of the most meaningful resolutions you can make, for yourself and for those who depend on you.