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When Should You Update Your Will? Key Life Events That Matter

Learn when you should update your will and why it matters after major life events. Coastal Legacy explains how to keep your will current and legally valid.

When Should You Update Your Will Key Life Events That Matter

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Writing a will is a major step towards protecting your family and future — but it shouldn’t be a one-time task.

As your life changes, your will should change with it. Failing to update it can lead to confusion, disputes, or unintended outcomes.

At Coastal Legacy, we help people across Hampshire, Fareham, Gosport, and Portsmouth review and update their wills, ensuring their wishes always match their circumstances.

Here are the key moments when it’s time to revisit your will.

1. Marriage or Civil Partnership

When you marry or enter a civil partnership, any existing will is automatically revoked (cancelled), unless it was written “in contemplation” of marriage.

If you don’t make a new will, your estate could be distributed under intestacy laws, meaning your new spouse may inherit everything — even if that’s not what you intended.

✅ Tip: Write a new will as soon as you get married or register a partnership.

2. Divorce or Separation

Divorce doesn’t automatically cancel your will, but your former spouse is treated as if they died before you.

That means:

  • They won’t inherit anything from your estate.
  • They can’t act as your executor or trustee.

If you’ve separated (but not divorced), your ex-partner could still inherit under your existing will — so it’s vital to review it promptly.

3. Having Children or Grandchildren

The birth or adoption of a child is one of the most important times to review your will.

You may want to:

  • Appoint guardians to care for them
  • Create trusts to manage inheritance until they’re older
  • Adjust how your estate is divided

Children grow, relationships evolve — your will should keep up.

4. Buying or Selling Property

Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets. If you move, buy a second property, or sell your home, update your will to reflect the change.

This ensures the right people inherit, and that any new mortgage or property ownership structure is taken into account.

5. The Death of a Beneficiary or Executor

If someone named in your will dies, their role or inheritance may need to be reassigned.

A simple amendment ensures everything remains clear and legally binding.

6. Changes in Financial Circumstances

If your wealth increases or decreases — perhaps through inheritance, investment, or retirement — your will may need adjusting to reflect your new situation.

Regular reviews help ensure your assets are distributed fairly and tax-efficiently.

7. Family Changes or Relationship Shifts

Family dynamics change over time. You may want to include new loved ones, remove others, or make different provisions based on changing relationships.

Your will is personal — it should always represent your current feelings and intentions.

8. Every Few Years

Even if nothing major has changed, it’s wise to review your will every three to five years. Laws, taxes, and personal goals evolve — a quick review keeps everything up to date.

How to Update Your Will

Updating your will is simple. You can:

  • Make a new will, which automatically replaces the old one, or
  • Add a codicil, a short document making small amendments

At Coastal Legacy, we’ll advise on the best option for your situation.

Keep Your Wishes Current

Your will should grow and adapt as your life does. Regular reviews protect your loved ones and ensure your legacy always reflects who you are.

At Coastal Legacy, we make updating your will simple, affordable, and stress-free.

👉 Contact Coastal Legacy today to review or update your will with professional support across Hampshire.