It’s the New Year—Is Your Estate Plan Still Up to Date?

A new year often brings reflection, fresh goals, and important life changes. While many people focus on fitness, finances, or career plans, estate planning is often overlooked. If your life changed in any meaningful way last year, the new year is the perfect time to review and update your estate plan—especially if you live in Florida.

Why the New Year Is the Right Time to Review Your Estate Plan

Estate plans are not “set it and forget it” documents. They should evolve as your life changes. Even small updates can have a big impact on how your assets are protected and distributed under Florida law.

An annual review helps ensure:

• Your wishes are still accurate

• Your documents comply with current Florida law

• Your loved ones are properly protected

• Life Changes That May Require an Estate Plan Update

If any of the following happened last year, it may be time to revisit your estate plan:

Marriage or Divorce

Marriage can affect beneficiary designations and spousal rights under Florida law. Divorce may require removing an ex-spouse from your will, trust, or powers of attorney.

Birth or Adoption of a Child

Welcoming a child means naming guardians and updating beneficiaries to make sure your children are protected if something happens to you.

Death of a Loved One

If a beneficiary, trustee, or personal representative passed away, your estate plan likely needs to be updated to reflect new choices.

Buying or Selling Property

Florida homestead property is treated differently under the law. Purchasing or selling real estate may impact how your assets should be titled or distributed.

Changes in Financial Situation

A new business, inheritance, retirement, or significant increase or decrease in assets can affect whether your current estate plan still works for your goals.

Health Changes

A serious illness or diagnosis may require updating health care directives, powers of attorney, or long-term planning strategies.

Why Updates Matter Under Florida Law

Florida has specific rules regarding:

• Probate administration

• Homestead protections

• Spousal and family rights

• Powers of attorney and health care designations

Outdated documents may cause confusion, delays, or even court involvement. In some cases, old plans can create unintended results that do not reflect your current wishes.

What to Do Next

Start by reviewing your existing documents:

• Will or Trust

• Durable Power of Attorney

• Health Care Surrogate

• Living Will

• Beneficiary designations

Then, schedule a consultation with a Florida estate planning attorney to discuss any necessary updates. An attorney can help ensure your plan reflects your current life and remains legally sound.

Start the Year With Peace of Mind

The new year is a fresh start—and a smart time to make sure your estate plan keeps up with your life. A quick review today can prevent stress, confusion, and legal issues for your loved ones tomorrow. If last year brought changes, your estate plan should reflect them.

For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.

Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.