Wedding season is here, and if you just said “I do!” you’re probably busy merging Netflix queues, debating whose couch wins, and figuring out how to combine two very different kitchens. It’s the fun stuff, and it should be! But while you’re settling into married life, there’s one important conversation worth adding to the to-do list: estate planning.
It might not sound exciting, but it’s one of the most caring things you can do for each other right now. Without a plan in place, the state makes all the big decisions about your assets, medical care, and finances. That’s not the kind of surprise gift anyone wants to leave their spouse.
Here’s a straightforward, seven-step guide to help you get started:
1. Update your beneficiary designations
Retirement accounts, life insurance, and some bank accounts let you name who gets the money if something happens to you—and these designations beat your Will every time. (Yes, that means your ex might still be in line for your 401(k) if you haven’t updated it.)
Take a quick pass through all your accounts and make sure your spouse is listed where they should be. While you’re at it, consider whether naming a trust as beneficiary might make more sense in your situation (especially with kids from previous relationships or bigger assets). It’s worth a [quick chat] with an attorney.
2. Create or update your will
If you don’t have a Will yet, now’s the perfect time. A Will lets you decide who gets what, who will handle your affairs, and who you’d trust to care for any kids or pets.
Already have one? Update it to include your spouse and reflect your new reality. Blended families especially benefit from clear, thoughtful language so everyone is protected.
3. Set up powers of attorney
Name your spouse as your financial power of attorney and healthcare power of attorney (Advance Directive). These let them step in to pay bills, manage accounts, or make medical decisions if you’re unable to do so.
Without them, your spouse might have to go through court just to talk to your insurance company or access a shared account. Add a HIPAA Authorization too, so they can speak with doctors. Small step now, huge stress-saver later.
4. Consider a revocable trust
A Revocable Trust helps you manage assets now and pass them smoothly to your spouse (or others) later. It makes things much easier in the event of incapacity, and it usually avoids probate entirely, which means less cost, less public drama, and faster access during a tough time.
Trusts are especially useful if you own a house, have investments, or are planning to grow your family. Plus, you can change it anytime as life evolves.
5. Review your insurance coverage
Marriage changes the financial math. Ask yourselves: Could we still cover the mortgage and bills if one of us couldn’t work for six months? If one of us passed away, could the other keep the life we’re building?
This is one of the best times to lock in life and disability insurance while you’re young and healthy. Even a simple term life policy can provide real peace of mind.
6. Have the real conversations
- Estate planning works best when you’re on the same team. Grab a cup of coffee and talk through the big stuff:
- Do we want to keep anything separate or combine it all?
- Who would we want raising our future kids?
- How do we feel about life support or end-of-life decisions?
- Any family members or causes we want to support?
These talks aren’t always easy, but they’re so much better now than during a crisis.
7. Meet with an estate planning attorney
Every couple’s story is different, and state laws vary. A good estate planning attorney can pull everything together—beneficiaries, property titles, taxes, and blended family details—into one cohesive plan that actually makes sense for your life.
They’ll explain the “why” behind everything so you feel confident, not confused.
Why this actually matters
At its heart, estate planning is about saying, “I’ve got your back, no matter what.” It’s one of the most loving, practical things you can do early in your marriage. You’re building a life together, and this will help protect it.
Ready to get started?
Whether you’re newly married or know someone who is, we’d love to help make this easy. Schedule a chat with Sara to talk through your goals and create a plan that fits your life. Reach us at 503.675.4385 or book a Preview Call directly.
