October is National Estate Planning Month, making it the perfect time to pause and take stock of one of life’s most important responsibilities — protecting your family’s future.
As we inch closer to the end of 2025, now’s the time to make sure your plans reflect where you are today — not where you were five or ten years ago. Life changes fast: families grow, assets shift, and priorities evolve. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul everything. Sometimes, it’s just about tightening the loose ends.
Here’s your end-of-year estate planning checklist to help you start strong and step into 2026 with peace of mind.
1. Review (and Update) Your Will or Trust
If you can’t remember the last time you looked at your will — it’s probably been too long.
Did you welcome a new child or grandchild? Sell or buy property? Go through a major life change? These are all reasons to review and update your documents.
2. Double-Check Beneficiaries
Beneficiary designations on life insurance, retirement accounts, or payable-on-death accounts often override what’s written in your will. Make sure the right names are listed — especially after marriage, divorce, or loss.
Many people assume their estate plan covers everything, but this is one of the most common (and costly) oversights.
3. Organize Important Documents
If your loved ones can’t find your estate planning documents, that’s almost as bad as not having them.
Keep everything — your will, trust, property deeds, insurance policies, and passwords — in a secure but accessible location.
You might even consider a digital storage option that allows you to safely share and manage important information with trusted family members.
4. Talk to Your Family About Your Wishes
Estate planning isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about communication. Make sure your family knows what you’ve planned and where to find everything when the time comes.
If this sounds uncomfortable, you’re not alone. But a few intentional conversations now can save your loved ones from confusion, conflict, and unnecessary stress later.
Remember: even the best plans fail if no one knows they exist.
5. Schedule a Professional Review
Laws change, tax thresholds shift, and what made sense a few years ago may not hold up today.
Schedule a meeting with an estate planning attorney or financial advisor to review your documents and ensure your plan aligns with your goals for 2026 and beyond.
A 20-minute consultation today could prevent months of legal or financial headaches later.
Want to Learn More?
Check out our YouTube video, “Why Every Homeowner Needs At Least a Will – Protect Your Family’s Future with Ashley Edwards,” where Ashley breaks down the essentials of why every family — regardless of wealth — needs a plan in place.
Catch up on the full series if you missed an episode—each one is packed with practical steps for real-life impact.
Let’s talk in the comments: What steps are you taking to protect your legacy?
Upcoming Events – Save the Dates
Want to take real action toward your estate goals? Mark your calendar and join us at these upcoming events:
Legacy Lounge – Tuesday,October 21st at 6 pm (location TBA)
Wills, Wealth, and Beyond – Wednesday, October 22nd, 6 pm – 8 pm
This powerful event will share insights on heirs property, wills and trusts, and navigating the transition of grief with care. Join us at Pinnacle Financial Partners, 384 Northyards Blvd. NW, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30313, to gain the knowledge and strategies needed to secure your family’s future.
Keep the Keys: Navigating Mortgages After Death – October 29th, 7 pm – 8 pm
Will Writing Party 5 – February 2026 (location TBD)
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Want to Avoid the Drama Altogether?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Book a free 20-minute call with Ashley to get personalized advice on your situation.
Let’s work together to create a plan that ensures your family’s future is secure and stress-free.
Stay Connected
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