Updating your will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. For residents of Catalina Foothills, where property values and lifestyles can change quickly, keeping your will current is especially important. Here are helpful tips to guide you through the process.
1. Review Your Will Every 2–3 Years
Even if life feels steady, reviewing your will regularly helps make sure it still aligns with your goals and circumstances. Small changes can affect how your estate should be managed later.
2. Make Updates After Major Life Events
Life changes quickly, and your will should keep up. Revisit your will when you experience:
- Marriage, divorce, or separation
- The birth or adoption of a child
- Buying or selling property in the Catalina Foothills
- A significant change in income or assets
- Receiving an inheritance
- The passing of someone named in your will
These events often require immediate updates to avoid future complications.
3. Check and Update Beneficiaries
Your beneficiaries should be correctly listed and consistent across all your documents. Ensure updates are made in your:
- Will
- Insurance policies
- Retirement accounts
- Investment and bank accounts
Keeping everything aligned prevents disputes later.
4. Reevaluate Your Executor
Your executor will be responsible for carrying out your wishes. Confirm that your chosen executor:
- Is still able and willing to serve
- Lives close enough to manage responsibilities, if necessary
- Remains someone you trust completely
Consider naming a backup executor as well.
5. Update Real Estate Information
Catalina Foothills is known for its desirable real estate, and property details can change. Be sure your will reflects:
- Current home addresses
- Updated property values
- Any newly purchased or recently sold properties
6. Ensure the Will Meets Arizona Legal Requirements
For your updated will to be valid, Arizona law requires:
- Your signature
- Two witnesses present at signing
- A clear statement revoking previous wills (if applicable)
Consulting an estate planning attorney in Arizona is the best way to ensure everything is legally sound.
7. Store Your Updated Will in a Safe Location
Once updated, keep your will in a secure but accessible place such as:
- A fireproof safe
- An attorney’s office
- A location known to a trusted family member
Remove old copies to avoid confusion.
Final Thoughts
Your will should grow and change with your life. For residents of Catalina Foothills, keeping your will updated ensures that your property, assets, and wishes are properly protected. If your estate includes real estate, working with a knowledgeable local realtor like Ryan Comstock ensures your property information stays accurate.
📞 520-216-4669
📧 ryancomstock@ryancomstock.com
🌐 www.ryancomstock.com