Entering 2026 without anup-to-date estate plan is like driving without insurance. To help you start theyear with security, we've curated a checklist optimized for the current legaland digital landscape.

Taking just a fewminutes to review these key areas can prevent months of complications for yourfamily later.

What Should Be on YourEstate Planning Checklist for 2026?

To ensure comprehensiveprotection, your 2026 review should cover five critical pillars.

First, conduct afiduciary check. Are your executor,trustee, and power of attorney agents still the right people for the job?Consider whether they're still alive, whether you still trust them with theseresponsibilities, and whether they live close enough to handle urgent matterseffectively.

Second, review yourbeneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies. Your 401(k), IRAs, and life insurance policiespay out outside of your will. This means updating your will does not fix thesedesignations if they're outdated. An ex-spouse or estranged relative couldstill inherit these assets if you haven't updated the forms.

Third, verify yourdigital asset authorization. Does your power ofattorney explicitly grant someone the right to access your digital life,including email, photos, and cryptocurrency, if you become incapacitated?Without this specific language, your designated person may be powerless to helpyou.

Fourth, confirm yourguardianship nominations if you have minor children. The person you named years ago may no longer be appropriate dueto age, health, relocation, or changed circumstances.

Fifth, prepare for newtax law provisions. Many provisions ofrecent tax legislation kick in this year, creating new planning opportunities.We can help you incorporate these changes into your estate plan to maximizebenefits for your family and ensure you're taking advantage of current tax strategiesavailable in Milford.

Why Are Digital AssetsImportant in 2026?

Traditional wills oftenfail to account for online accounts. Without specific digital asset language inyour estate plan, your family may be blocked from accessing your Apple ID,Google Photos, or online banking accounts, even with a death certificate inhand.

Technology companieshave strict privacy policies that don't automatically grant access to familymembers. Your estate plan needs explicit provisions addressing these modernassets to prevent your family from being locked out of important accounts,precious memories, and financial information.

How Can You Audit YourEstate Plan at Home?

Before scheduling aconsultation, locate your physical estate planning documents. Read through thenames listed as beneficiaries and executors carefully. If you feel anyhesitation about any name on those papers, that's your sign to schedule areview.

Pay attention to yourgut reaction. If you think, "I'm not sure they could handle this anymore," or "We haven't spokenin years," those concerns indicate your plan needs updating.

Taking Action This Year

Don't let the busynessof the new year push this off your to-do list. A 30-minute review now can saveyour family months of stress and uncertainty later.

We can help you workthrough this checklist and identify any gaps in your current plan. Contact usat 203-877-7511 to schedule your 2026 estate planning review. Mention thisarticle when you call, and we'll provide a comprehensive assessment of yourdocuments to ensure they're ready for the year ahead.

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