Serving Sarasota and Venice, FL
- Review and update wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations before the year ends
- Make sure healthcare directives, powers of attorney, and guardianship plans are current
- Confirm that your loved ones know where important documents are stored and who to contact
Why Year-End Is the Best Time to Review Your Estate Plan
The end of the year is a natural checkpoint. Families gather, finances close out, and many people look ahead. If you live in Sarasota, Venice, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, this is a smart time to meet with an estate planning attorney to confirm that your documents still match your wishes.
A complete review doesn’t have to be stressful, and even small updates can make a significant difference for your family.
1. Update Beneficiaries and Executors
Life changes. Your estate plan should match it.
You should review:
- Beneficiaries on wills and trusts
- Beneficiaries on bank accounts and life insurance
- Executors or successor trustees
If someone has moved, passed away, become estranged, or no longer wishes to serve, now is the time to adjust your documents.
2. Check Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives
Many people don’t realize that outdated or vague documents can cause delays during a medical emergency. Confirm that:
- Your decision-makers are still the right people
- Someone you trust can speak for you medically and financially
- Your wishes are clearly written and accessible
These documents are often more important than a will and should never be ignored.
3. Review Your Trust (If You Have One)
If you have a trust, make sure it’s properly funded.
Common items that need updating:
- Real estate that hasn’t been transferred into the trust
- Newly opened accounts
- Instructions for distributing property
A trust only works if assets are titled correctly. An attorney can verify this quickly and prevent complications later.
4. Make Sure Your Family Knows Where Documents Are Stored
Even the best estate plan fails if no one can find it.
Before the end of 2025, confirm that at least one trusted person knows:
- Where the documents are stored
- Who your attorney is
- How to access important accounts or instructions
Clarity prevents confusion and protects your wishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I update my estate plan?
Most attorneys recommend reviewing your plan every 1–2 years, or anytime there is a major life change — a marriage, divorce, birth, change in health, or relocation. Simple updates now prevent future disputes and keep your plan valid and clear.
2. What if I already have a will, is that enough?
A will is a great start, but many people also need powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and possibly a trust. An attorney can help determine whether your current plan fully protects your family and assets.
3. What happens if someone passes away without updating documents?
Outdated documents can lead to confusion, delays, or outcomes that don’t reflect the person’s wishes. Beneficiaries may differ from what the person intended, or the wrong person may be in charge of decisions.
4. Why use a local attorney instead of online forms?
Florida estate laws are unique, and online documents may not meet state requirements. A local attorney ensures everything is legal, clear, and customized for your situation.
If you live in Sarasota or Venice, now is the perfect time to review your estate plan and guarantee your documents protect the people you care about. Schedule a consultation with a local estate planning attorney today. Proudly serving Sarasota, Venice, and surrounding Florida communities.
