Keeping your will updated is a vital part of protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are followed. For residents of Vail, Arizona, where life changes and property ownership can shift quickly, it’s especially important to keep your estate planning documents current. Here are practical tips to guide you.
1. Review Your Will Every 2–3 Years
Even if nothing major has changed, revisiting your will every few years ensures that your wishes still match your current circumstances and goals.
2. Update After Major Life Events
Significant life events often require updating your will, including:
- Marriage, divorce, or separation
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Buying or selling property in Vail
- Major financial changes or inheritance
- Death of someone named in your will
Updating your will promptly after these events helps avoid confusion and ensures your wishes are honored.
3. Check Your Beneficiaries
Ensure that your beneficiaries are correctly listed and consistent across all documents, including:
- Your will
- Life insurance policies
- Retirement accounts
- Bank and investment accounts
This reduces the risk of disputes or conflicts later.
4. Reevaluate Your Executor
Your executor is responsible for carrying out your wishes. Make sure your chosen executor:
- Is still available and willing
- Is capable of handling responsibilities
- Lives close enough to manage estate matters, if necessary
It’s also wise to appoint a backup executor.
5. Update Real Estate Information
Vail property can appreciate quickly, and ownership may change over time. Make sure your will reflects:
- Current property addresses
- Updated property values
- Any newly purchased or sold properties
6. Meet Arizona Legal Requirements
To be legally valid in Arizona, your updated will must:
- Be signed by you
- Be witnessed by at least two people
- Clearly revoke prior versions
Consulting an Arizona estate planning attorney is recommended to ensure compliance.
7. Store Your Will Safely
Keep your updated will in a secure location such as:
- A fireproof safe at home
- Your attorney’s office
- A trusted family member’s safe location
Destroy old copies to prevent any confusion.
Final Thoughts
Updating your will is an essential part of protecting your family and ensuring your wishes are followed. For residents of Vail, Arizona, making timely updates and including accurate real estate information can save your loved ones from unnecessary complications. For guidance on property updates or real estate matters, local realtor Ryan Comstock is ready to help.
📞 520-216-4669
📧 ryancomstock@ryancomstock.com
🌐 www.ryancomstock.com