Life circumstances can change often, and so can laws and financial situations. An estate plan you created years ago might no longer reflect your current wishes or provide the protection you need. Reviewing and updating your plan can help ensure your loved ones receive the support you intend to provide.
Adapting to life changes
Major life events may require you to update your estate plan. Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or the death of a beneficiary could change how you want your assets distributed and who should carry out your final wishes.
A 2025 survey by Caring.com found that family expansion through birth or marriage is among the top reasons Americans revise their wills. About 30% of respondents updated their estate documents after buying property or receiving an inheritance, and 23% made changes following births or marriages.
Divorce can create particular challenges. If your former spouse remains named as a beneficiary or executor, they could still inherit assets or make decisions unless you update your documents. Similarly, if a named guardian for your minor children is no longer suitable due to changed circumstances or a strained relationship, the court might appoint someone you would not have chosen.
If you move to Pennsylvania from another state, additional considerations may apply. Estate laws differ by state, and a plan drafted elsewhere may not meet Pennsylvania requirements. Provisions that were valid in your previous state might not be enforceable, so reviewing your plan with a local attorney could be a wise step after any interstate move.
Financial shifts call for a second look
Changes in your financial situation can be a good reason to revisit your estate plan. You might consider reviewing your estate documents after events such as:
- Buying real estate or selling a major asset can change how property passes to your heirs
- Receiving an inheritance or a significant financial gift that affects the overall value of your estate
- Starting or closing a business, especially if succession planning is involved
- Retiring or rolling over employer-sponsored retirement accounts into individual accounts
These situations can sometimes create differences between what your estate plan says and what you actually own. For example, a will might leave a family home to one child, but if you sell that home and buy a different property, the will may no longer reflect your current assets.
Health care planning requires attention
Estate planning involves more than distributing your assets. It also helps you prepare for the possibility that you become unable to make decisions by appointing a trusted person to address medical and financial issues on your behalf.
A health care power of attorney lets you name an agent to make medical decisions when you cannot communicate. In Pennsylvania, you must have two witnesses who are at least 18 years old. Separately, a living will lets you state your preferences for end-of-life treatment and only takes effect if you are permanently unconscious or have an end-stage medical condition.
Your medical preferences may also evolve. You might feel differently about life-sustaining treatment as your health or perspective changes. Regular conversations with your family and health care providers can help clarify your wishes as you consider making changes to your agreements..
Taking preemptive steps toward your future
Reviewing your estate documents does not have to feel overwhelming. You might consider checking your documents every three to five years or after major life events, as many estate planning attorneys recommend. Often, you can complete this review in a single meeting and only need minor updates.
A regular review can help ensure that your chosen beneficiaries and agents are still appropriate and willing to serve. It can also confirm that your assets will go to the right people according to your current wishes and family situation. You might also address any gaps, such as new accounts or retitled assets.
If you do not update your estate plan, your family might face probate with outdated or conflicting documents. This situation might cause delays, increase legal costs and create disputes about your intentions.