As we begin 2025, it's the perfect time to review your estate plan. As a Milford will and trust lawyer, I've created this checklist to help you ensure your estate plan continues to protect what matters most.

Life Changes That Need Your Attention

Has 2024 brought any major life changes? Consider if you've experienced:

• Marriage, divorce, or remarriage

• Birth or adoption of children/grandchildren

• Death of a spouse or beneficiary

• Relocation to a new state

• Purchase or sale of significant assets

• Changes in business ownership

• Retirement or job changes

• Health diagnoses

Any of these changes might necessitate updates to your estate planning documents.

Document Review

Take a moment to locate and review these essential documents:

• Will and/or Trust

• Powers of Attorney (Financial and Healthcare)

• Living Will/Advanced Directives

• Life Insurance Policies

• Retirement Account Beneficiary Designations

Check Document Ages

If your documents are more than 3-5 years old, they might need updating. Banks and healthcare institutions often hesitate to accept older powers of attorney, and tax laws may have changed since your documents were created.

Digital Asset Inventory

In our increasingly digital world, don't forget to:

• Update your digital asset inventory

• Review online account access information

• Document cryptocurrency holdings

• Consider digital legacy instructions

Beneficiary Designation Check

One of the most commonly overlooked areas is beneficiary designations. Verify your named beneficiaries on:

• Life Insurance Policies

• Retirement Accounts

• Investment Accounts

• Transfer-on-Death Accounts

Next Steps

If you've identified areas needing attention, don't wait to take action. As your Milford will and trust lawyers, we can help you:

• Review existing documents

• Update outdated provisions

• Ensure compliance with current laws

• Implement new estate planning strategies

• Address any concerns you've identified

Start 2025 with Peace of Mind

Estate planning isn't just about documents – it's about protecting your family and ensuring your wishes are honored. Contact our office at 203-877-7511 to schedule your estate plan review. Let's make sure your plan continues to serve your needs in 2025 and beyond.

Contact our will and trust planning lawyers in Milford and Trumbull, Connecticut.