Will and a Trust: Understanding the Differences

Q: How Often Should I Review or Update My Estate Plan?

A: Creating an estate plan is a powerful step toward protecting your family and your future - but it’s definitely not a “set it and forget it” kind of thing. Life changes, laws change, and sometimes your goals shift too. That’s why I (Sydney Key, estate planning attorney with Blizzard & Zimmerman) encourage clients to think of their estate plan as a living document - one that should grow and adapt along with them.

General Rule of Thumb

A good starting point is to review your estate plan every 3-5 years. This ensures your documents stay up to date with Texas law and with your life. Even if nothing major has changed, a quick check-in helps you feel confident that everything is still aligned with your wishes.

Times You Should Update Sooner

You don’t need to wait years if something big happens. Consider reviewing your will, trust, powers of attorney, or healthcare directives whenever you experience:

Marriage or Divorce - A new spouse, or ending a marriage, should immediately trigger a review.
Birth or Adoption of a Child/Grandchild - You may want to name guardians or provide financial support through a trust.
Major Financial Changes - Buying or selling a home, inheriting money, or starting a business can all affect your estate.
Relocation - If you move to or from Texas, state laws differ and may impact your plan.
Health Changes - A serious diagnosis, or caring for an aging loved one, can shift your priorities.
Loss of a Loved One - If a beneficiary or executor passes away, your plan needs an update.

Why It Matters

An outdated estate plan can cause confusion, conflict, and even court battles for your family. Worse, it may leave your assets unprotected or your wishes unfulfilled. By keeping things current, you ensure your loved ones won’t be burdened with unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.

Estate Planning as Peace of Mind

For many of my clients - especially women and men in the heart of their caregiving, parenting, or business-building years - an estate plan isn’t just about “someday.” It’s about knowing, right now, that your family is protected and your voice will be heard no matter what the future holds.

Next Step: If it’s been more than a few years since you’ve reviewed your estate plan - or if life has thrown you any curveballs recently - it may be time for an update. I’d be honored to walk you through a review and help ensure your plan still works for your life, today.