As the year winds down, many people turn their attention to holiday planning, financial deadlines, and setting personal goals. Yet one important task often slips through the cracks: reviewing your existing estate planning documents. With fewer than 100 days left in the year, this is an ideal moment to make sure your plan still supports your wishes, reflects your current circumstances, and aligns with your long-term goals.

Estate planning should never be viewed as a one‑time project. Throughout the year, many things can shift — relationships change, finances evolve, and new assets may be added to your portfolio. Even subtle adjustments in your life can influence whether your plan continues to protect the people and priorities you care about. A year-end review offers a valuable opportunity to confirm that everything remains accurate and effective.

Look Over Your Will and Trust Documents

Your will and any trust you have created form the core of your estate plan. These documents outline how your assets should be distributed and identify the individuals who will be responsible for handling important matters when the time comes.

Even if these documents were carefully prepared, it’s wise to revisit them periodically. Key life events — such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child or grandchild, changes in financial standing, or the loss of someone close to you — may require updates. Reviewing these materials at the end of each year can help ensure your estate plan still reflects your current intentions and family circumstances.

Verify All Beneficiary Designations

Many people are surprised to discover that some assets pass directly to designated beneficiaries, regardless of what their will states. Accounts such as retirement plans, life insurance policies, and certain financial accounts transfer based on the beneficiary information on file.

Because of this, it’s important to make sure these designations are accurate and up to date. An outdated beneficiary form can create unintended results that may not line up with your current wishes. A year-end check provides a useful reminder to confirm these details.

Review Health Care and Incapacity Planning Documents

Estate planning also involves preparing for situations in which you may be unable to make decisions on your own. Planning ahead ensures that trusted individuals can step in if needed.

Documents such as a financial power of attorney, health care proxy, and living will allow chosen loved ones to help manage your affairs or medical needs during a difficult time. Since personal relationships and responsibilities can change, reviewing these materials yearly helps you ensure your chosen decision-makers are still the appropriate people and that your wishes remain clearly stated.

Check Trust Funding and Asset Ownership

Setting up a trust is only the first step. For a trust to function properly, assets that are intended to be part of it must be titled or transferred correctly.

A year-end review is a great time to assess whether any new property, investment accounts, or significant assets have been handled in accordance with your plan. Confirming these details helps ensure that your trust works the way you intended and supports your broader estate planning strategy.

Consider Family and Financial Changes From the Past Year

Life transitions often require adjustments to your estate documents. Events such as marriage, divorce, the arrival of a child, receiving an inheritance, buying or selling a business, or the passing of a loved one may all necessitate changes to your plan.

When these events occur, your estate plan should be updated to remain accurate and relevant. A thoughtful review after major changes can reduce complications later and provide peace of mind knowing your intentions are properly documented.

Assess Insurance Coverage and Long-Term Planning Needs

Insurance is an important component of many estate plans. During your year-end review, consider whether your life insurance continues to meet your family’s needs and long-term goals.

You may also want to evaluate homeowners insurance or other coverage that supports your overall financial picture. Reviewing these policies regularly helps you identify potential gaps and ensures they continue to complement your estate planning efforts.

It’s also helpful to step back and think about long-term priorities such as future care needs. Revisiting these considerations can help ensure your estate plan remains both comprehensive and forward-looking.

Have Open Conversations With Loved Ones

One of the most meaningful parts of estate planning has nothing to do with documents. Communicating openly with family members can reduce uncertainty and prevent misunderstandings later on.

While these conversations may feel uncomfortable, sharing your thoughts and explaining key decisions can offer clarity and peace of mind to those closest to you. Clear communication can make difficult moments easier for your family in the future.

Why a Year-End Review Matters

Your estate plan is designed to safeguard your wishes and support the people you care about. However, even the most thorough plan can become outdated if it isn’t reviewed periodically.

With fewer than 100 days remaining in the year, now is a practical time to review key documents such as your will, trust, beneficiary forms, incapacity planning paperwork, asset ownership records, and insurance policies. Taking a proactive approach helps ensure your estate plan stays aligned with your goals and remains responsive to any changes that occurred over the past year.

If you would like support reviewing your estate planning documents or considering possible updates, our team is here to help. We are committed to protecting your priorities and offering guidance that reflects your unique circumstances.