When preparing to travel, you may be worried about ensuring your toiletries are TSA-compliant or who will take care of your pets while you’re away. As such, the last thing on your mind may be your estate plan. Though it’s morbid to consider, ensuring your estate plan is up-to-date before traveling can help provide peace of mind should the worst-case scenario happens. If you’re unsure what you should review or why this is necessary, the following blog can assist. Additionally, you’ll learn how a Medina, Ohio estate planning lawyer can help you update your estate plan before traveling.

Should I Update My Estate Plan Before Traveling?

Though unpleasant to consider, taking the time to make the necessary changes to your estate plan before traveling is necessary. This can help provide you with peace of mind that your loved ones and assets will be taken care of according to your wishes should you pass away. Additionally, planning documents like a Healthcare Directive ensure your medical wishes have been explained in the event you become incapacitated and cannot advocate for yourself.

What Changes Do I Need to Make?

When you review your estate plan, there are specific changes you should anticipate making. For example, you’ll want to review your Will and any Trust Funds you have established. Consider any significant life events that have occurred, like marriages, divorces, or births that can influence your plan.

Additionally, if you made a recent real estate transaction like buying or selling, you should update your plans. This could include adjusting what assets your Beneficiaries receive, as the new value of the home may be greater than the previous one.

Finally, you’ll want to ensure that your plan accurately reflects what you would like to happen to your minor children, if you have any. This includes naming guardians for them. If the person you had named can no longer assume the role, you should update your plans to ensure the children are cared for in the event something should happen to you. It’s also in your best interest to consider naming an alternate option.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me?

When you’re looking to make changes to your estate plan, ensuring you have an experienced attorney help you through this process is critical. Trying to navigate this process without assistance can lead to your plan being deemed invalid. Additionally, if you do not use the correct language, your wishes may not be met. To avoid this, letting an experienced lawyer help you make the necessary changes is critical and helps provide peace of mind that your loved ones will be cared for.

At Krause Law, we understand the weeks before travel can be hectic, which is why our team is committed to helping you through these complex matters. We understand that making the necessary changes to your estate plan can be overwhelming, which is why we’re ready to help you navigate this process so you can feel confident. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you through these matters.