As the year comes to a close, many people reflect on what has changed in their lives. Family circumstances evolve, assets grow or shift, and priorities become clearer. This makes the end of the year a sensible time to review and update your will.
A will is not a once-only document. It should reflect your current circumstances and intentions. Updating it before the new year can help ensure your wishes are carried out properly and reduce uncertainty for the people you care about.
This guide explains when a will should be reviewed, why timing matters, and how keeping it up to date can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Why Reviewing Your Will Matters
A valid will gives clear instructions about how your estate should be managed and distributed after your death. When a will no longer reflects your circumstances, it can create confusion, disputes, and unintended outcomes.
Common issues that arise with outdated wills include:
- Assets going to people you no longer intend to benefit
- New family members not being provided for
- Executors who are no longer suitable
- Increased risk of disputes between beneficiaries
Reviewing your will regularly helps ensure it continues to reflect your wishes and remains legally effective.
Life Changes That Should Prompt a Will Update
Certain life events make reviewing your will especially important. If any of the following occurred during the past year, an update may be necessary.
Changes in Relationships
This includes marriage, separation, divorce, or entering a new de facto relationship. In NSW, marriage can revoke an existing will unless the will was made in contemplation of that marriage.
New Children or Grandchildren
Births, adoptions, or blended family arrangements often require careful planning to ensure all dependants are properly considered.
Changes to Assets
Buying or selling property, starting or closing a business, receiving an inheritance, or significant changes to investments can affect how your estate should be structured.
Changes to Executors or Beneficiaries
Executors and beneficiaries may move interstate, experience health changes, or no longer be appropriate choices.
Why the End of the Year Is a Practical Time to Update
The end of the year offers a natural pause to review important documents. Many people already review finances, superannuation, and insurance at this time, making it a logical moment to revisit estate planning as well.
Updating your will before the new year can help you:
- Enter the new year with clarity
- Reduce administrative pressure on loved ones
- Ensure your intentions are documented while details are fresh
- Avoid delays caused by holiday periods or early-year commitments
It also allows time to address any issues well before unexpected events arise.
What Happens If Your Will Is Outdated or Invalid
If a will does not reflect your circumstances, or if it is legally invalid, NSW succession law determines how your estate is handled.
This can lead to:
- Distribution that does not match your intentions
- Increased stress for family members
- Delays caused by court applications
- Higher costs associated with disputes
Keeping your will current reduces the risk of disputes and helps ensure your estate is managed efficiently.
Common Will Updates People Overlook
Even when major life events have not occurred, smaller changes can still justify an update.
These may include:
- Updating specific gifts or personal items
- Changing how assets are divided
- Adjusting instructions for minor children
- Reviewing guardianship arrangements
- Aligning your will with superannuation nominations
A short review can often identify areas that would benefit from clarification.
Estate Planning Is More Than Just a Will
While a will is central to estate planning, it often works alongside other documents such as powers of attorney and enduring guardianship appointments.
A coordinated approach helps ensure:
- Financial decisions can be managed if you lose capacity
- Personal and medical decisions are handled according to your preferences
- Your estate plan works as a whole
More information about estate planning support is available on our Wills and Estates page.
Signs It’s Time to Update Your Will
| Situation | Why an Update Helps |
| Relationship Change | Ensures assets go to the right people |
| New Children | Provides clarity and financial support |
| Property Changes | Reflects current asset ownership |
| Executor Changes | Appoints someone suitable and available |
| Time Since Last Update | Keeps instructions current and clear |
How Often Should You Review Your Will?
As a general guide, reviewing your will every few years is sensible, even if nothing major has changed. This allows you to confirm that:
- Your instructions still reflect your wishes
- Your executor choices remain appropriate
- The will complies with current law
A review does not always lead to changes, but it ensures your estate plan remains relevant.
Getting Your Will Right the First Time
Making changes without proper legal advice can create uncertainty or unintended consequences. Simple updates may still require careful drafting to ensure they are legally valid and effective.
Professional guidance helps ensure:
- Your will complies with NSW law
- Your intentions are clearly expressed
- Risks of dispute are reduced
- Your estate can be administered efficiently
Start the New Year with Clarity
Reviewing your will before the new year is a practical step that helps protect your wishes and your loved ones. It provides certainty, reduces stress, and ensures your estate plan keeps pace with your life.
Speak with Us About Updating Your Will
If you are considering updating your will or would like a review of your current arrangements, we are here to help.
We take the time to understand your circumstances and provide clear, practical guidance tailored to your needs.
Contact us to arrange a consultation and ensure your will reflects what matters to you as you move into the new year.
