The start of a new year is when many of us take stock of our lives. We clean out closets, recommit to healthier habits, and make plans for the months ahead. But one important item often gets pushed to the bottom of the list: estate planning.
I hear it all the time from Louisiana families: “I know I need to do it, I just haven’t gotten around to it yet.”
If that sounds familiar, the new year is a perfect time to begin. Here are three estate planning resolutions worth making and keeping.
Estate planning isn’t something that has to be completed in a single day. It’s a thoughtful process that unfolds over time. Making the decision to start is often the hardest part.
1. Get organized. Your future self will thank you.
By mid-life, most people have accumulated more than they realize. Bank accounts, retirement plans, insurance policies, investment accounts, and property records can pile up over the years. It’s easy to lose track of what you have or where important documents are kept.
Getting organized doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by creating a simple file, digital or physical, for each asset you own.
As you acquire new accounts or policies, add them to the file. This small habit can prevent confusion, frustration, and unnecessary stress for your loved ones later on.
2. Review your beneficiary designations
Life changes, and your estate plan should reflect that.
Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild… these moments matter when it comes to beneficiary designations. Many people are surprised to learn that beneficiary forms on life insurance policies and retirement accounts often override what’s written in a will.
Taking time each year to review and update beneficiaries helps ensure your assets go where you intend. Because there can be legal and tax implications, it’s always wise to review these decisions with an estate planning attorney who understands Louisiana law.
3. Execute or update your Last Will and Testament
For many people, creating a will feels overwhelming. The truth is, it doesn’t have to be.
A will starts with something very simple: deciding who should receive your most important assets and who should carry out your wishes.
From there, an experienced estate planning attorney can help guide you through the process and explain how Louisiana law affects your plan.
Having a will in place provides clarity, direction, and peace of mind for you and for the people you care about most.
A resolution worth keeping
Estate planning isn’t something that has to be completed in a single day. It’s a thoughtful process that unfolds over time. Making the decision to start is often the hardest part.
I’ve had the privilege of helping many Louisiana families create estate plans that fit their lives and reflect their values. If you’re not sure where to begin, I’m always happy to have a conversation and help you take that first step.
The new year is about planning ahead. Let this be the year you begin planning for your family’s future with care, clarity, and confidence.
