8 Different Strategies to Pay for Long-Term Care
I’m seeing lots of spring flowers in my social feeds these days! 
No sign of them in my own garden yet, but that’s okay—spring is happening somewhere. And with it comes fresh air, new beginnings, and the urge to do a little spring cleaning.
Time to air out that estate plan!
“Wait, what?” (you may be thinking.) “I finally checked “plan for the future” off my to-do list, and now you’re telling me I have to do it all over again?!”
Not exactly. Keeping your plan up to date doesn’t take much effort—but it’s not a one-and-done task either. You wouldn’t plant a rhododendron and never touch it again. It needs occasional care—fertilizing, watering in dry spells, a little pruning now and then.
Wills, Trusts, and Estate Plans are the same way: low maintenance, but not NO maintenance.
So… does your estate plan need a little attention? Here are some real-life moments that might mean it’s time to check in with your estate lawyer.
- An Exciting Life Change
Maybe you established your estate plan years ago and named your brother and sister-in-law as guardians for your kids. Now your eldest is married, and that guardianship may no longer be relevant. You could now consider setting up a trust for your grandkids’ future.
- Important New Assets
You’ve recently purchased a charming cottage in the Berkshires where your family gathers every weekend. You love having the family together for weekends in the country, but have you updated your estate plan to reflect this new asset and ensure it’s properly managed? - Long-Lost Beneficiary Designations
At 3 am you remember an old life insurance policy you hold that was set up by an employer back in the 90s. Your ex-spouse is the beneficiary, and they’ve just passed. Are all your accounts—life insurance, 401(k)—up to date with the correct beneficiaries? Will you be able to fall back asleep until you know? - New Laws and Rules
You’re not a lawyer or a tax expert. Maybe you run a small, successful business and see a headline in the news that makes you wonder if you’ll be affected by recent tax law changes. This is an opportunity to review – and maybe even improve – your plan to better protect your business and your children’s inheritance. (The SECURE Act of 2020 is an example of a change that affected most of our clients – so if you haven’t touched your plan since the 90s… it’s time!)
Keep Your Estate Plan Strong: A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Think of your estate plan as a living document—not a one-and-done task. Just like tending a garden, regular care ensures it stays strong, clear, and legally binding when needed. A simple annual review—perhaps each spring—can help prevent complications, uncertainty, and stress for your loved ones down the road.
Did you know that 60% of Americans don’t have an estate plan? (Source: AARP) Don’t leave your loved ones in the dark. A quick review now can help you avoid unnecessary taxes, surprise expenses, and complex probate processes later.
We can help. Our Plan Preservation Program keeps your estate plan relevant as laws change, assets grow, and life evolves—giving you peace of mind for the future.
Is it time for a refresh? Let’s take a look together.
📥 Download our free guide, Why You Should Review or Update Your Estate Plan, to learn key reasons to revisit your plan and ensure it’s up to date.
Simply fill out the form below to receive instant access!
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