How to Update Your Will After a Major Life Change

Step-by-step guide to revising your will after marriage, divorce, new children, or other major life events that affect your estate.

1. Identify what triggers a will update. Major life changes that require will updates include marriage, divorce, birth or adoption of children, death of a beneficiary or executor, significant changes in assets (buying a home, receiving inheritance), and moving to a new state. Minor changes like switching bank accounts typically don't require updates.
2. Gather your current will and asset information. Locate your most recent will and any codicils (amendments). Create a current list of all assets including bank accounts, investment accounts, real estate, life insurance policies, and retirement accounts. Note which assets are covered by the will versus those with designated beneficiaries.
3. Review and update beneficiary designations. Check beneficiaries on retirement accounts, life insurance, and bank accounts — these override what's in your will. Update primary and contingent beneficiaries to reflect your current wishes. Remove ex-spouses and add new family members as appropriate.
4. Revise executor and guardian appointments. Confirm your executor is still willing and able to serve. If you have minor children, update guardian designations and ensure those people have agreed. Consider naming backup executors and guardians in case your first choices can't serve.
5. Update asset distribution and specific bequests. Revise who gets what based on your current situation and assets. Add new children to inheritance plans and remove deceased beneficiaries. Update specific bequests for jewelry, family heirlooms, or other meaningful items.
6. Execute the updated will properly. Have the new will signed and witnessed according to your state's requirements — typically 2-3 witnesses who aren't beneficiaries. Consider notarization even if not required. Store the original in a safe place and give copies to your executor and attorney.