
Summer is a season of transitions: graduations, weddings, moves, vacations, and sometimes even a change in pace that gives us time to think more clearly. That’s why summer is also the perfect season for estate planning.
With a little extra time and family often gathered together, it’s the ideal moment to take stock of your life and make sure your legal and financial affairs are aligned with your current goals.
Update Your Estate Plan After Major Life Changes
Life moves fast. Have you gotten married or divorced? Welcomed a child or grandchild? Bought or sold property? These are all key moments that should trigger a review of your estate plan.
Even if nothing big has changed, it’s smart to check your plan every 2–3 years. Laws shift, families evolve, and your wishes may adjust over time.
Review Your Decision-Makers
Who have you chosen to act on your behalf in a crisis? Are your healthcare agents, trustees, guardians, and powers of attorney still the right fit? Do they still live nearby? Do they understand your values?
Summer is a great time to have quiet, meaningful conversations with those you trust to make decisions for you.
Align Your Plan with Your Assets
Your estate plan is only as good as how well it reflects your actual financial life. Make sure your assets—including bank accounts, business interests, and real estate—are titled properly and, if needed, held in your trust.
Don’t forget to double-check beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies. Those designations override your will or trust, so they need to match your wishes.
Consider Summer Travel as a Planning Prompt
Heading out of town? Travel is often a wake-up call to get things in order. Before your trip, confirm your health care directive, power of attorney, and guardianship nominations are in place—especially if you have minor children.
Don’t Wait for a Crisis
We plan vacations, birthday parties, and college visits months in advance. Why should something as important as your legacy wait until a crisis?
Taking time this summer to update your estate plan can bring lasting peace of mind. It’s a simple act of love for the people you care about most.
Final Thought: Make summer count. As you enjoy the sunshine, use this season of renewal to plan ahead. Your future self—and your family—will be glad you did.