As we step into a new year, many families in Edmonds, WA and throughout the Greater Seattle area are taking stock of their goals and priorities. While some resolutions focus on health or finances, don’t overlook the importance of updating your estate plan, especially if you live in Washington State, where laws and personal circumstances can change quickly.
At Washington Elder Law, we help clients throughout the Puget Sound region take proactive legal steps to protect their legacy, preserve assets, and prepare for the future with confidence.
Here are some simple, impactful estate planning tips to get your 2026 started right.
Update Your Estate Plan
We say it often because it matters: an outdated estate plan can be worse than none at all.
Ask yourself:
- Has your financial or medical situation changed?
- Have your children gotten married, divorced, or had children of their own?
- Do your beneficiary designations still reflect your wishes?
- Are your trusts properly funded?
If you’ve experienced any life changes, or if it’s simply been a few years since your last review, this is the perfect time to revisit your plan. We regularly assist clients in Edmonds, Seattle, and across Washington State with timely updates to ensure their documents stay aligned with their long-term goals.
Explore our estate planning and elder law services to see how we can support your planning journey.
Make Sure Your Family Knows About Your Plan
Even the most thorough plan won’t be effective if no one knows it exists.
We recommend writing a simple letter to your loved ones that includes:
- Contact info for your attorney, CPA, wealth advisor, insurance agent, etc.
- The location of key documents (will, powers of attorney, healthcare directives)
- A list of financial assets (bank accounts, retirement plans, life insurance)
- Important medical information (doctors, medications, pharmacy details)
Clients in the Puget Sound area often thank us for helping them create this “one-stop reference” for their families; it’s a gift that goes far beyond paper.
Create a Master Password List
If you’re like most people, your digital life is a maze of usernames, passwords, and security questions. Imagine your loved ones trying to untangle that without guidance.
Now’s the time to:
- Compile a master password list
- Store it securely (consider a password manager or encrypted document)
- Let your family know where to find it in case of emergency
This small step can save hours of confusion and stress when your loved ones need access the most.
Need Help Getting Started?
Washington Elder Law offers complimentary workshops for individuals and families who want to learn more about estate planning and how to access Medicaid benefits in Washington State.
Workshops are conducted online via Zoom and cover a variety of topics to help you plan with clarity and confidence. Visit our workshops and register for an upcoming session.
Or give us a call at 206-448-1011 and we’ll be happy to help you register.
Don’t wait to plan. Contact Washington Elder Law today to update your estate plan and start 2026 with peace of mind.
