Divorce and remarriage change everything. Keeping the same estate plan could allow an ex to inherit or leave a new spouse and children unprotected. Many assume legal documents update automatically after major life changes, but that’s not the case.

Failing to update your estate plan leads to legal battles and financial stress for loved ones. Here’s how to prevent that.

What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Plan?

• An ex-spouse may inherit – Leaving them on a will, trust, or life insurance policy means they could still receive assets.
• A new spouse may get nothing – If an old plan favors a former spouse, a new one may be excluded.
• Children’s inheritance may be at risk – Without updates, assets could pass entirely to a new spouse instead of children.
• An ex may control medical or financial decisions – Power of attorney documents with their name still give them legal authority.

What to Update After Divorce

Rewrite your will and trust – Remove an ex to ensure assets go to the right people.
Change beneficiary designations – Update life insurance, retirement accounts, and bank accounts to reflect current wishes.
Update powers of attorney and healthcare directives – Assign financial and medical decision-making to someone new.
Review guardianship for minor children – Name the right guardian to ensure proper care.

What to Update After Remarriage

Set up a trust – Protect a new spouse while ensuring children inherit as planned.
Update your will – A new spouse may not inherit unless included.
Check retirement and life insurance beneficiaries – Ensure assets go to the right people.
Review property agreements – Prenups and postnups clarify asset distribution.

Act Now to Protect Your Legacy

Failing to update an estate plan risks unwanted inheritance, family disputes, and financial hardships. Take control now.

Call 931-651-1900 today to update your plan and protect your loved ones.