Keeping your will up to date is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones. If you live in Marana or recently moved here, reviewing your will regularly ensures that it continues to reflect your wishes and current life situation. Here are practical tips to help guide you.
1. Review Your Will Every 2–3 Years
Even if nothing major has changed in your life, it’s smart to revisit your will every few years. This helps you spot anything outdated and confirm that everything still aligns with your goals.
2. Update After Major Life Events
Certain life changes require immediate updates to avoid confusion later. Make revisions when you experience:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Buying or selling property in Marana
- Starting a new business
- Major financial changes
- Death of someone named in your will
These events can affect how you want your assets handled.
3. Double-Check Beneficiaries
Make sure the beneficiaries listed in your will match those in your:
- Insurance policies
- Bank accounts
- Retirement accounts
Many people forget to update one or the other, causing conflicts later.
4. Reevaluate Your Executor
Your executor should be someone responsible, organized, and willing to handle the task. Review whether:
- They are still available
- They are comfortable taking on the responsibility
- You need to assign a backup executor
5. Update Property Details
If you have purchased or sold real estate in Marana, make sure your will accurately reflects:
- Current property addresses
- Updated values
- Any new investments
6. Follow Arizona’s Legal Requirements
To make sure your updated will is legally valid in Arizona, it must:
- Be signed
- Be dated
- Have two witnesses present at signing
Meeting these requirements ensures your updates will be honored.
7. Store Your Updated Will Safely
Keep your will in a secure location such as:
- A fireproof safe
- Your attorney’s office
- A trusted family member’s possession
Also, destroy old copies to avoid confusion.
Final Thoughts
Updating your will doesn’t have to be complicated. By reviewing it regularly and making changes after significant life events, you ensure your wishes remain clear and legally protected. If your will includes real estate, consider working with a knowledgeable local realtor like Ryan Comstock to make sure your property details are up to date.
📞 520-216-4669
📧 ryancomstock@ryancomstock.com
🌐 www.ryancomstock.com