5 Life Events That Mean It’s Time to Update Your Estate Plan (Washington State)

Many people create an estate plan and assume it’s something they can check off their list forever. In reality, estate planning is not a one-time task. As life changes, your estate plan should change with it.

If you live in Washington State, certain life events may signal that it’s time to review or update your will, trust, or overall estate plan. Below are five common situations where updating your estate plan is especially important.

1. Marriage or Divorce

Getting married or divorced is one of the most significant reasons to update an estate plan. Marriage may mean adding a spouse as a beneficiary, updating powers of attorney, or creating shared planning documents. Divorce, on the other hand, often requires removing a former spouse and revisiting beneficiary designations.

In Washington, failing to update your estate plan after a major relationship change can lead to unintended outcomes during probate.

2. Having Children or Grandchildren

The birth or adoption of a child is another important reason to review your estate plan. This is often when people consider naming guardians for minor children, setting up trusts, or planning how assets should be managed for younger beneficiaries.

An updated estate plan can help ensure your children are cared for according to your wishes if something unexpected happens.

3. Buying or Selling a Home or Other Major Assets

Purchasing real estate, starting a business, or acquiring significant assets can affect how your estate should be structured. Washington State has specific rules around property ownership and community property, which makes it especially important to ensure your estate plan reflects your current financial situation.

Updating your plan can help ensure assets are properly titled and distributed.

4. Death of a Loved One

Losing a spouse, parent, or other close family member can change both your emotional and financial circumstances. This type of loss may affect beneficiaries, personal representatives, or decision-makers named in your estate plan.

Reviewing your documents after the death of a loved one helps ensure they still align with your intentions and current family structure.

5. Changes in Health or Aging Concerns

As we age or face health challenges, planning becomes even more important. Updating powers of attorney, healthcare directives, or living wills can help ensure your wishes are respected if you become unable to make decisions for yourself.

Planning ahead can also reduce stress for family members who may need to step in during difficult moments.

Why Regular Estate Plan Reviews Matter

Even without a major life event, it’s a good idea to review your estate plan every few years. Laws change, family dynamics evolve, and priorities shift over time. Keeping your estate plan current helps avoid confusion, delays, and unintended consequences.

If you’ve experienced one of these life events—or if it’s been a while since you last reviewed your documents—now may be the right time to revisit your estate plan.

This is general information and is not legal advice.