Have you recently asked yourself if your current Florida estate plan still reflects your wishes? As the year winds down, it is easy to get swept up in holiday plans and daily demands, but now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your estate planning tools. While most people remember to revisit their goals or finances, reviewing your legal protections is just as important.
There are often overlooked details that can cause big problems later. From outdated beneficiary designations to health care planning tools that no longer match your current medical wishes, a little attention now can go a long way in preventing conflict, confusion, or stress down the road. Let’s explore what you may want to review before the calendar turns to January.
1. Review and Update Your Durable Powers of Attorney
If you created your durable powers of attorney years ago, they may no longer reflect the right people or give enough authority to handle today’s financial complexities. Make sure your chosen agents are still capable and willing to act and confirm that your documents comply with current Florida law.
2. Revisit Your Health Care Planning Tools
Health care surrogates, living wills, and HIPAA authorizations should be reviewed regularly. Changes in your health, medical preferences, or trusted decision-makers are all reasons to update these essential tools. If you moved to Florida from another state, confirm that your documents meet Florida requirements.
3. Check Beneficiary Designations
Some of the most common estate planning mistakes stem from outdated beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, or transfer-on-death assets. These designations override the instructions in your last will and testament or trust agreement, so be sure they are accurate.
4. Confirm Your Trust or Last Will and Testament Matches Your Intentions
Do your current tools still reflect how you want your assets to pass? Have you welcomed new grandchildren, lost a loved one, or gone through a life change that affects your legacy goals? Your trust agreement or last will and testament should reflect your most recent wishes.
5. Review Guardianship Designations
If you have minor children or are caring for a loved one with a disability, take a moment to confirm who you have listed as guardians for their person and property. Planning ahead ensures peace of mind for everyone in your care.
We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers. Swank Elder Law helps families across Florida stay informed, protected, and prepared with personalized guidance. Let us help you begin the new year with peace of mind. Call our office today to schedule a review of your current estate plan.
