It is important to update your Will regularly because your circumstances and wishes may change over time. For example, you may have new assets or liabilities, change your mind about who you want to inherit from you, or have a new family member such as a child or grandchild. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, or the death of a beneficiary or executor may also require you to update your Will. Additionally, changes to tax laws and other legal regulations may impact your estate planning, so it's important to keep your Will up to date to ensure it accurately
reflects your wishes and protects your assets. Reviewing and updating your Will every few years, or after any major life event, can help ensure that your wishes are properly reflected in your Will and that your loved ones are taken care of.
There are many other reasons to update your Will:
a) Marriage or divorce: either event may cause all or part of your previous Will to become invalid.
b) Unstable marriage or partnership: if your relationship status changes or is uncertain, it may be wise to review and update your Will.
c) Decision to delay inheritance: if you decide to raise the age at which your children or grandchildren inherit, as they may not be mature enough to cope with large sums of money at the age of 18.
d) Amendments to Guardianship: if the people you have appointed as Guardians are no longer suitable or available, or if changes in schooling require local Guardians to be appointed.
e) Arrival of children: if you have a child for the first time, you will need to appoint Trustees and Guardians in your Will.
f) Need to secure housing situation: if an adult child still lives at home or has unexpectedly returned, you may need to update your Will to ensure their housing situation is secure.
g) About to go on holiday or undergo surgery/illness: if you are facing any major life event, it may be prudent to review and update your Will beforehand.
h) Concerns about a child's maturity: if you have concerns about leaving a large sum of money to a child who may not be mature enough to handle it, leaving funds in Trust may be advisable.
i) Children grown up and able to act as Executors: if your children have reached adulthood and are capable of acting as Executors, you may wish to update your Will accordingly.