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Estate Planning

How often should I update my estate plan?

I made a will about ten years ago before I got divorced and remarried. Is my old will still valid?

Asked anonymously · 4 weeks ago · Wisconsin, US · 1,111 views · 1 answers

1 lawyer answer

An old will may still be legally valid, but it may not reflect your current wishes. In some places, divorce automatically revokes gifts to a former spouse in a will; in others it does not. Marriage can also affect an existing will in some jurisdictions. Beneficiary designations on accounts and insurance may not be updated automatically at all.

Many people review their plan every few years and after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a death in the family, a move to another state or country, or a significant change in finances.

Given your divorce and remarriage, a review is a good idea — including all beneficiary forms.

This is general information, not legal advice — speak to a licensed lawyer about your situation.

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