Retirement changes a lot about daily life—your routine, your finances, and often, your goals. It can also shift what you need from your estate plan. A plan made years ago might not reflect your life today. Reviewing it now can help you stay prepared and protect the people who matter most.
From Saving to Spending
During your working years, the focus is on earning and growing assets. Once you retire, you start thinking more about how to use what you’ve built and how long it will last. That change affects how your plan handles things like taxes, income, and retirement account distributions. It’s a good idea to confirm that your will, trust, and financial documents all work together the way you intend.
Check Beneficiaries and Account Details
Many people don’t realize how often life changes make old paperwork out of date. Maybe a child got married, or a family member passed away. Outdated beneficiaries can override what’s written in your will or trust. Taking a few minutes to update names and percentages can prevent future confusion and make sure your wishes are clear.
Health and Long-Term Care
As you move through retirement, health care becomes a larger part of the picture. Review your powers of attorney and advance directives—make sure they still name the people you trust most. You might also want to think ahead about how long-term care costs could affect your savings and whether you need additional protection in place.
Revisit Priorities and Goals
Retirement often changes how people think about family, giving, and legacy. You may want to simplify, share more during your lifetime, or leave gifts in a different way. Adjusting your estate plan ensures it matches what matters to you right now—not what mattered ten or twenty years ago.
If it’s been a while since you looked over your documents, don’t wait. A quick review can help you feel confident that everything is still in order. Call Meredith Law at 832-246-8481 or fill out the form on our website to schedule a convenient time to talk. We’ll help you keep your plan current and ready for whatever comes next.