How Major Life Events Impact Your Estate Plan

Richard Seff
Feb 18 2026 16:00

Life is full of big changes—some exciting, some unexpected—but they have the potential to impact your estate plan. Whether it's getting married or divorced, becoming a parent, moving to a new state, experiencing a significant change in assets, or dealing with the death of a beneficiary or executor, these events can alter your wishes, legal responsibilities, and how your assets are distributed.

Getting married changes your legal and financial landscape, potentially impacting asset distribution. Conversely, divorce necessitates immediate updates to prevent unintended beneficiaries from inheriting your assets.

For new parents, ensuring that your children are financially protected and having clear guardianship designations in place is crucial in case of an emergency.

If you move to a new state, varying estate planning laws might require updating your will, trust, or other documents to align with local regulations.

Significant changes in your financial situation, such as receiving an inheritance, starting a business, or facing hardship, should prompt an adjustment to your estate planning goals.

When a beneficiary or executor passes away, revisiting your designations ensures that your wishes are still carried out as intended.

It's wise to review your estate plan regularly and consult with an estate planning attorney. Doing so helps navigate these life changes smoothly, ensuring your plan remains up to date and in alignment with your current situation. Professional guidance can make estate planning accessible and easy to understand, so don't hesitate to seek expert advice if you have any questions.