Why Fall Is a Smart Time to Review Your Estate Plan

Time doesn’t stand still, and your estate plan shouldn’t either. Major life events like births, deaths, marriages, new homes, or career changes can all impact how your assets are handled and who inherits what. If you don’t revisit your plan regularly, your intentions can easily fall out of alignment with reality. That’s why fall is an ideal time to take stock. As the year winds down, families come together, schedules slow down, and there’s a natural sense of transition. It’s the perfect opportunity to make sure your will, trusts, and beneficiary designations reflect your current wishes, not the ones you had a decade ago.

Check if your documents still match your life

Get out your current estate plan. If the last time it was updated was more than three years ago, it's time for a look. What has changed in your life? Did you have a new child? Did you get divorced? Buy a business? Name a guardian who’s now in a bad state of health? These are all important legal updates to include in your estate. The consequence of leaving these outdated is confusion, delays, or worse, court battles among family members that need not be.

Don’t forget the “invisible” assets

They’re called invisible because they are often overlooked. Most people focus on their wills but forget their retirement accounts, life insurance policies, or payable on death bank accounts. These accounts are outside the will and go directly to named beneficiaries. If your ex is still named as a beneficiary on your 401 (k) or perhaps your friend from college is still named on an old policy, then that could become a complication down the line. Log in to your accounts, or call support to update the current beneficiaries.

Use the year-end tax window wisely

December 31 marks the cutoff for many key estate planning actions. If you're planning to gift assets, fund trusts, support a favorite charity, or take other steps to reduce your taxable estate, timing is critical. Waiting until January means missing out on an entire year of potential tax advantages. By starting in the fall, you give yourself the breathing room to speak with an advisor, explore your options, and complete the necessary paperwork without last-minute stress.

Talk to your family 

Holiday gatherings often bring everyone under one roof. That makes fall a practical time to have honest (but low-pressure) conversations about your wishes. You don’t need to share every detail, but letting your adult kids or executors know where documents are, who’s in charge, and what your healthcare preferences are can ease a huge burden later. Clarity now prevents conflict later.

Keep it clear and complete

Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Most people can cover their key needs with a well-drafted will, a durable power of attorney, and up-to-date beneficiary designations. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s making sure the right people are named and understand your wishes. Simplicity and clarity matter most. When plans get overly complicated, confusion follows, and that’s exactly what you want to avoid.

Contact Attorney Bucklin 

Attorney Bucklin is your partner to get straightforward, no-pressure estate planning, both for individuals and families. Bucklin focuses on delivering clear and practical documents that reflect your current wishes. Schedule a free consultation with Attorney Andrew Bucklin to start securing your future! You can give Andrew Bucklin a call at 781-632-8675.