Have you checked lately to see if your will is up-to-date? Visiting an estate planner may not be your favorite thing to do, and it’s easy to put it out of your mind once it's over. However, since you last put your affairs in order, things may have changed.

Can You Trust Your Revocable Trust?

It’s a great idea to put all your assets into a trust so your heirs can avoid the delay of probate court. Follow-up is important here, though, and it might be smart to check and make sure real estate and vehicles have had their titles transferred to the trust.

Another thing to look at is whether you’ve listed every asset. Life insurance and retirement accounts are a couple of items that can slip through the cracks. When you think of the property you need to list, it’s important to count financial assets like these.

And what if you become physically or mentally disabled? An advance directive designates who will be responsible for your care. Also, make sure you have paperwork signed and notarized giving someone you trust the power of attorney over your finances.

Finally, talk it over with your friends and family. Make sure the people who will take care of matters are on board with your plans. If your assets are in a trust, you might want to explain the benefits to those who will be responsible for it. And make sure your beneficiaries are up-to-date – you wouldn’t want your assets to unexpectedly go to the wrong person!