5 Signs It’s Time to Review Your Estate Plan

At the Later Living Helpline, we often speak with people who believe estate planning is something you do once and never think about again. In reality, it’s something that should evolve as your life changes. Knowing when to review your estate plan can make the difference between a smooth transition for your family and months of unnecessary stress.

Your Will, your Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), and any trusts or protection plans you have in place should always reflect your current wishes and personal situation. Life never stands still — and neither should your estate plan.

Here are five clear signs it may be time for a review.

1. You’ve Experienced a Major Life Change

If there’s been a big shift in your life, your estate plan likely needs an update. Events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, a change in health, or buying or selling property can all affect your existing arrangements.

For example, getting divorced doesn’t automatically remove an ex-partner from your Will, and a new child won’t be included unless you update your documents. Taking the time to review your estate plan after major milestones helps ensure everything still matches your intentions.

2. Your Beneficiaries Have Changed

Relationships change over time. You might want to remove someone, add a new family member or partner, or change how your estate is divided. Reviewing who inherits from your estate makes sure your Will still reflects your current wishes, not how you felt years ago.

3. Your Executors or Attorneys Are No Longer the Right Choice

The people you choose to act for you — your executors and attorneys — play an important role. But circumstances change. Someone you once trusted may have moved abroad, become unwell, or simply no longer be the best fit. Re-evaluating who you’ve appointed ensures that those handling your affairs are capable, available, and still right for the job.

4. It’s Been a Few Years Since You Last Checked It

Even if nothing significant has changed, it’s smart to schedule a review every three to five years. Laws are updated, property values rise and fall, and your financial situation may look very different to when you first drafted your plan. A regular check helps keep everything current and compliant.

5. You’ve Never Looked at It Since Signing

You’d be surprised how many people haven’t read their Will or LPAs since they were signed. Small details — such as outdated addresses, missing assets, or unregistered documents — can cause major problems later. Taking half an hour to read through your paperwork could save your family confusion and delay down the line.

Why Reviewing Your Estate Plan Matters

An out-of-date estate plan can lead to disputes, delays in probate, or even the wrong people inheriting your assets. Without up-to-date LPAs, loved ones may need to go through the Court of Protection to make decisions on your behalf — a slow and stressful process.

Estate planning isn’t just legal paperwork. It’s peace of mind. A simple review ensures your family has clear guidance when it matters most and that your wishes will always be respected.

Final Thought

Your estate plan should grow alongside your life. If any of these signs sound familiar, take time to review your documents and make sure they still reflect your wishes.

The Later Living Helpline offers free information and guidance for anyone wanting to understand their options. Our friendly team can connect you with estate planners who provide free consultations online — so you can get peace of mind without any pressure.