Updating Your Documents After Marriage or Divorce

Should I create my Estate Plan documents before or after I get married?

The decision is personal and depends on your circumstances. Consider these options:

Before Marriage

• Advantages: Ensures an estate plan is in place sooner.
• Requirements: May need to update, reprint, and re-sign documents after marriage or name changes.

After Marriage

• Advantages: Only need to print and sign documents once.
• Disadvantages: No estate plan in place until after marriage.

I'm recently married and already have Estate Plan documents—what do I do?

If you marry after creating an Estate Plan, it's essential to update your plan to reflect your marital status. While some states may have automatic adjustments, they may not fully align with your wishes. FastWill users should contact us for assistance in transitioning to a married account.

I'm recently divorced—do I need to update my documents?

Divorce can significantly impact the validity and applicability of your existing Estate Plan regarding your ex-spouse. The effects vary by state laws and circumstances. FastWill users should contact us for assistance in updating their documents.

What happens if I don't update my documents after marriage or divorce?

Failing to update your Estate Plan after marriage or divorce could result in state laws dictating the distribution of your assets, potentially contrary to your wishes. It's crucial to review and update your plan to ensure it accurately reflects your current situation and intentions.