Your estate plan should reflect your life—not your past. If you’ve experienced changes in relationships, assets, or the law, your plan might be outdated. In this blog, we walk through 7 signs your California estate plan may need a refresh and how to keep it working for you and your loved ones.

Including your IRA or 401(k) in your estate plan isn’t about changing ownership now—it’s about making sure your beneficiary designations align with your overall plan. Without proper coordination, your retirement accounts could trigger unnecessary taxes, delays, or even court involvement. This blog explains when to name individuals, when a trust may make sense, and how to protect your loved ones under the SECURE Act’s 10-year rule.

Planning for your children’s future isn’t just about finances—it’s about ensuring they’re raised by the right people and supported with the resources they need. If you have minor children, estate planning means making critical decisions now so a judge doesn’t make them for you later. In California, parents can legally name guardians, set up trusts to protect a child’s inheritance, and avoid costly court involvement through thoughtful planning.