As the California hills turn green and the days grow longer, the tradition of spring cleaning often leads us to declutter our homes. However, there is one "closet" that many California residents forget to tidy: their estate plan.
A trust is not a "set it and forget it" document. Life in the Golden State moves fast—laws change, families grow, and assets shift. To ensure your legacy remains protected and your wishes are honored, here is a checklist for your estate planning spring cleaning.
1. Review Your Trustees and Beneficiaries
Life milestones are the most common reasons to update a trust. Take a moment to look at the individuals named in your documents:
Successor Trustees: Are the people you chose years ago still capable and willing to serve? Perhaps a sibling has moved out of state, or a close friend is no longer in a position to handle complex financial tasks.
Beneficiaries: Have there been births, deaths, marriages, or divorces in the family? If you’ve welcomed new grandchildren or experienced a change in marital status, your trust should reflect those joys (and realities).
2. Audit Your Assets (Funding the Trust)
One of the most common mistakes we see is an "unfunded" trust. A trust only controls the assets that are actually titled in its name.
Real Estate: Did you purchase a vacation home in Tahoe or a rental property in the Central Valley recently? Ensure the deed has been transferred to the trust.
Accounts: Check that your brokerage accounts and non-retirement bank accounts are properly linked to your trust.
3. Account for New California Laws
California’s legal landscape is unique and ever-evolving. From changes in property tax reassessment rules (like Proposition 19) to shifts in digital asset laws, what worked in 2018 might not be the most tax-efficient strategy in 2026. Reviewing your plan with a professional ensures you aren't leaving your heirs with an unnecessary tax burden.
4. Digital Assets and Health Care Directives
In our modern age, your "estate" includes more than just physical property. It includes your digital footprint—social media, cryptocurrency, and cloud storage. Ensure your trust grants your successor the authority to manage these assets. Additionally, check that your Advance Healthcare Directive still reflects your current wishes and that your designated agents have up-to-date contact information.
Protecting Your Legacy with Local Expertise
Your estate plan is more than just paperwork; it is a gift of clarity for your loved ones during a difficult time. Don't wait for a "storm" to find out your roof has leaks. At JRG Attorneys At Law, we are committed to helping our neighbors navigate the complexities of California law with confidence and peace of mind.
If it’s been more than three years since you last reviewed your trust, or if you’ve experienced a major life change, reach out to us today.
Contact JRG Attorneys At Law at (831) 228-5619 to schedule a review and ensure your estate plan is as fresh and prepared as the season ahead.