Many people create a will once and then forget about it for years. But life doesn’t stand still — circumstances change, families grow, and situations evolve. Regularly reviewing and updating your will ensures it always reflects your true wishes and keeps your loved ones protected.
In this article, we’ll explore when and why you should update your will, and provide simple tips to make the process clear and straightforward.
1. Major Life Events
Certain events require an immediate review of your will:
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Marriage or divorce: Changes in your marital status can affect your beneficiaries.
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Birth or adoption of children: They should be included in your document.
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Buying or selling property: It’s important to update information about your assets.
2. Financial Changes
Inheritance is closely linked to property and assets. If your financial situation has changed significantly — for example, you started a business, received an inheritance, or sold a major asset — updating your will will reflect the new circumstances.
3. Changes in the Law
Legislation evolves over time. Having a professional review your document every few years helps ensure that your will complies with current legal requirements.
4. Changing Executors or Guardians
If the person appointed as the executor of your will or the guardian of your children can no longer fulfil the role, it’s important to appoint someone else and formalise it officially.
5. Recommended Review Period
Even if there haven’t been major changes in your life, lawyers recommend reviewing your will every 3–5 years to ensure it remains up to date and doesn’t require amendments.
6. Professional Assistance — Quick and Easy
Updating your will is simpler than it seems. Working with experts allows you to:
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Make changes quickly
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Avoid legal mistakes
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Keep the document secure
7. Conclusion: Your Will Should Be a Living Document
A will is not a “set it and forget it” document. It’s a document that grows with your life, reflecting your values and your care for your family.