Year End Planning Tips to Protect Your Florida Legacy

As we approach the new year, many Florida families are focused on travel plans, holiday meals, and festive traditions. But have you taken time to check in on your legal planning tools? Are your estate planning documents still protecting what matters most? 

This season of reflection is the perfect opportunity to make sure everything is in order. From updating your health care planning tools to reviewing guardianship provisions for minor children, there are key details that often go overlooked. A few small updates today could offer lasting peace of mind for your entire family. 

Key Planning Tools to Review Before January 

1. Durable Powers of Attorney These powerful tools allow someone you trust to manage financial decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. If your agent has changed or you have not reviewed this document in several years, now is the time. 

2. Health Care Planning Tools Florida law allows you to designate a trusted individual to make health care decisions for you through a health care surrogate designation and living will. Reviewing these tools before the new year ensures your care wishes are still clearly outlined. 

3. Beneficiary Designations Do the listed beneficiaries on your life insurance policies, IRAs, or bank accounts reflect your current intentions? Many assets pass outside of the last will and testament, so it’s essential to confirm everything still aligns with your full estate plan. 

4. Guardianship Provisions for Children or Loved Ones with Special Needs If you have minor children or care for someone with special needs, now is a good time to confirm your guardianship nominations and letters of intent. Family changes or relocations may affect who is the best fit to serve in these important roles. 

5. Trust Agreements or Last Will and Testament If you have not reviewed your last will and testament or revocable trust in the past few years, the end of the year is a smart time to do so. Life changes such as a new grandchild, a marriage, or a move may require updates to ensure your wishes are carried out as intended. 

Start the New Year with Confidence Legal planning is a gift you give to your loved ones. It avoids confusion, prevents conflict, and gives your family the roadmap they need if something unexpected happens. As we close out the year, take time to protect what matters most.