When (and How) To Update Your Estate Plan

By Kaitlyn P. Tauber, Esq., Liberty Legacy Law Group

A common myth is that once you sign your will, you’re done.

In reality, estate planning is a living process. If your plan is outdated, it can cause the same kinds of problems as having no plan at all.

Here’s when to update your plan – and how to do it safely under Maryland law.

When You Should Review or Update Your Plan

You should review your estate plan every few years – and immediately after major life changes, including:

• Marriage or remarriage
• Divorce or separation
• New child or grandchild
• Death of a spouse, beneficiary, trustee, or executor
• Major changes in assets (buying/selling a home, inheritance, business growth)
• Relocation (especially moving into or out of Maryland)
• Health changes or a new diagnosis
• Changes in your relationship with a named decision-maker
• Concerns about long-term care planning

What “Updating” Really Means (It’s Not Always a New Plan)

Sometimes an update is simple. Sometimes it’s a full redesign.

Common updates include:

• Replacing an executor, trustee, or agent under power of attorney
• Changing guardians for minor children
• Updating distributions (who gets what and when)
• Adding trust planning to avoid probate or protect beneficiaries
• Fixing property titling so your plan actually works

How to Update Your Plan Safely

This is where many people accidentally create legal messes – especially with “quick fixes” online.

A few important principles:

Don’t hand-edit old documents. Cross-outs and handwritten notes can create confusion or invalidate sections.

Don’t rely on generic online forms. Maryland has specific rules – especially for wills, powers of attorney, and deeds. One mismatch can lead to rejection or litigation.

Update your documents and your asset alignment. If you create a trust but never retitle the house or accounts, your family may still end up in probate.

A Quick “Is My Plan Outdated?” Checklist

If any of these are true, it’s time to review:

• Your plan names people you wouldn’t choose today
• Your kids are older and your guardianship choices no longer fit
• You bought a home or moved real estate around
• You started (or grew) a business
• You have concerns about long-term care costs

How Liberty Legacy Law Group Helps

At Liberty Legacy Law Group, our Maryland estate planning attorneys don’t just “update paperwork.” We make sure your plan still matches your life – and still works under Maryland law.

Final Thoughts

The best time to update an estate plan is before there’s a crisis. A short review now can prevent a long court process later. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.