How to Update Your Missouri Will After a Major Life Change

How to Update Your Missouri Will After a Major Life Change

Updating your Missouri will is a crucial step following any major life change. Life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the passing of a loved one can significantly impact your estate planning. Ensuring that your will accurately reflects your current circumstances and wishes is essential to avoid potential complications in the future.

Here are key steps to help you navigate the process of updating your will in Missouri after a major life event:

1. Review Your Current Will

Before making any changes, carefully review your existing will. Look for provisions that may no longer align with your life situation, such as beneficiaries, asset distributions, or guardianship for minor children. Understanding what needs to be updated is crucial.

2. Consider the Impact of Major Life Changes

Each major life change may require different updates to your will:

  • Marriage: If you’ve recently married, you may wish to include your spouse as a beneficiary or make them the executor of your estate.
  • Divorce: Following a divorce, it may be important to revise or remove your ex-spouse from your will. This can help prevent unintended distributions.
  • Birth or Adoption of a Child: New children should be included in your will as beneficiaries or as designated guardians if anything happens to you.
  • Death of a Beneficiary: If a beneficiary has passed away, you’ll need to revise your will to designate new heirs or redistribute assets.

3. Consult with a Qualified Attorney

While updating a will can be a straightforward process, consulting with an estate planning attorney can be invaluable. They are knowledgeable about Missouri law and can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. An attorney can ensure that your will meets state requirements and accurately reflects your wishes.

4. Create a New Will or Add a Codicil

When updating your will, you can either create an entirely new document or add a codicil to your existing will. A codicil is a legal amendment that allows you to make specific changes without rewriting the entire document. Whatever method you choose, make sure it is signed and dated according to Missouri laws.

5. Execute Your Will Properly

In Missouri, for a will to be valid, it must be signed by you in the presence of at least two witnesses, who must also sign the will in your presence. If you opt for a codicil, ensure that it follows the same signing requirements. Proper execution helps prevent challenges to the validity of your will in the future.

6. Store Your Updated Will Safely

Once your will is updated, store it in a safe location. Keep multiple copies: one with your attorney, one in a secure place in your home, and one with a trusted family member. Inform your loved ones of its location so they can access it if necessary. Additionally, regularly review and update your will as circumstances change.

Conclusion

Updating your Missouri will after a major life change is an essential part of responsible estate planning. By taking the time to revisit and revise your will, you can ensure that your wishes are respected and your loved ones are taken care of. Always seek professional advice if you're uncertain about any aspect of the process, and remember to keep your will up-to-date as life continues to unfold.