08/18/2026
Having an estate plan is a great first step. But even a well-intentioned plan can create complications if some important details are overlooked. As we continue recognizing National Make-A-Will Month, here are 7 common estate planning mistakes to watch for:
1️⃣ Thinking a will is your entire estate plan. A comprehensive plan may include beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, trusts, and more.
2️⃣ Forgetting to update beneficiaries. Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and certain investment accounts may pass directly to the beneficiaries listed on the account.
3️⃣ Not updating your plan after major life changes. Marriage, divorce, children, retirement, a business transition, or the loss of a loved one are all reasons to revisit your plan.
4️⃣ Choosing the wrong executor. The person you choose should be trustworthy, organized, and prepared to take on the responsibility.
5️⃣ Overlooking digital assets. Online accounts, digital files, cryptocurrency, photos, and even social media may need to be considered.
6️⃣ Not telling anyone where to find important documents. Your plan can't provide much direction if your loved ones don't know how to find it.
7️⃣ Treating estate planning as a one-time task. Your life and financial situation will change over time. Your estate plan should evolve with them.
Estate planning isn't just about having documents in place. It's about making sure your wishes are clear and making things a little easier for the people you care about most.
