If you've been wondering how to update a will, you're not alone. Many people assume making changes is expensive or requires completely rewriting their estate planning documents. In reality, some updates are relatively simple, while others are better handled by creating a new will altogether.

Understanding when and how to make changes can help ensure your wishes are accurately reflected and that your loved ones have clear instructions when the time comes.

When Should You Update Your Will?

A common rule of thumb among estate planning professionals is to review your estate plan every three to five years, even if nothing major has changed. This helps ensure your documents still reflect your wishes and comply with current laws.

However, you shouldn't wait for a scheduled review if you've experienced a significant life event.

Some of the most common reasons to update your estate plan include:

• Getting married
• Getting divorced
• Having or adopting a child
• Purchasing or selling a home
• Receiving a large inheritance
• Starting or selling a business
• Moving to Texas from another state
• Naming a different executor
• Changing beneficiaries
• The death or incapacity of someone named in your will

Your will should accurately reflect your current family relationships, financial situation, and wishes. An outdated will can create unnecessary confusion or complications for your loved ones.

Can You Simply Add a Change?

Many people ask whether they can simply cross something out, write in a new beneficiary, or attach a handwritten note to their existing will.

Generally, the answer is no.

Making handwritten edits or informal changes to an executed will can create uncertainty and may not be legally effective. Texas has specific legal requirements for creating, changing, and revoking wills, and changes generally must meet those same legal formalities.

Instead, there are two primary ways to amend a will:

Option 1: Create a Codicil

A codicil is a legal document that modifies an existing will without replacing the entire document.

Think of it as an amendment that says:

• "Replace this section."
• "Add this beneficiary."
• "Remove this executor."

Because a codicil becomes part of your original will, it generally must be executed with the same legal formalities required for a will in Texas.

Option 2: Create a New Will

Sometimes the cleaner and safer approach is to replace the existing will with an entirely new one.

A new will typically includes language revoking all prior wills and codicils, making it easier for your executor and beneficiaries to understand your final wishes.

Codicil vs. New Will: Which Is Better?

One of the biggest questions people have is codicil vs new will.

The answer depends on how extensive your changes are.

A codicil may work well when:

• You're changing one beneficiary.
• You're replacing an executor.
• You're updating a specific gift.
• You're making one or two minor revisions.

A new will is usually better when:

• Multiple sections need updating.
• Your family situation has significantly changed.
• Your assets have changed substantially.
• Several codicils already exist.
• Your existing will is many years old.

While codicils remain legally recognized, many estate planning professionals prefer drafting a new will once multiple changes are involved because it reduces confusion and creates one clear document reflecting your current wishes.

Common Life Events That Require Updates

Let's look at some of the most common situations where updating your will makes sense.

Marriage: 

Many people wonder whether they should change a will after marriage.

The answer is almost always yes.

Marriage often changes:

• Beneficiary designations
• Property ownership
• Executor preferences
• Guardianship planning
• Long-term financial goals

If your spouse isn't included, or isn't included the way you intend, your estate plan may no longer reflect your wishes.

Marriage is one of the most important times to review your estate plan because newlyweds often experience multiple financial and legal changes in a short period.

Divorce: 

Divorce is another major reason to review your estate planning documents.

You may want to:

• Remove an ex-spouse as executor.
• Update beneficiaries.
• Revise guardianship provisions.
• Adjust inheritance plans.

Even after a divorce is finalized, failing to update your documents can create unnecessary complications for your family.

Having Children or Grandchildren: 

Welcoming a child or grandchild is one of life's happiest milestones and one of the most important reasons to review your will.

Parents/grandparents often need to:

• Name guardians for minor children
• Establish trusts for young beneficiaries
• Adjust asset distribution
• Add children or grandchildren as beneficiaries

Without updates, your current family structure may not be reflected in your estate plan.

Buying a Home: 

A new home is often your largest financial asset.

Whether it's your first house or your forever home, it's worth reviewing your will to ensure your property is distributed according to your wishes.

Moving to Texas: 

If you've recently relocated, a Texas will update is often a smart idea.

Although many wills created in other states remain valid, Texas has its own estate laws and procedures. Reviewing your documents after a move helps ensure your estate plan aligns with Texas requirements and your current circumstances.

Keeping Your Entire Estate Plan Current

Remember that your will is only one piece of your overall estate plan.

As your life changes, you should also review documents such as:

• Medical Power of Attorney
• Statutory Durable Power of Attorney
• HIPAA Authorization
• Revocable Living Trust (if applicable)

Sloan Docs offers complete will packages that include a will, Medical Power of Attorney, Statutory Durable Power of Attorney, and HIPAA releases, as well as revocable living trust packages for those with more comprehensive estate planning needs.

Reviewing these documents together helps ensure they continue working toward the same goals and reflect your current wishes.

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

A 2025 Caring.com survey found that only about 24% of Americans have a will, despite the fact that many recognize the importance of estate planning. Even among those who have created one, many fail to revisit it after major life events, leaving outdated information in place when it matters most.

Updating your will doesn't have to be overwhelming. In many cases, a simple review can identify whether a small amendment or a completely new will makes the most sense.

Keep Your Wishes Current with Sloan Docs

Life changes and your estate plan should change with it. Whether you've recently gotten married, welcomed a child, purchased a new home, or simply haven't reviewed your documents in years, taking the time to update your will can provide clarity and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Sloan Docs makes creating and updating essential estate planning documents straightforward and affordable with easy-to-use online legal document templates for wills, trusts, powers of attorney, HIPAA authorizations, and more. If your life has changed since you first created your will, now is an excellent time to review your estate plan and ensure it still reflects your wishes for the future. Explore Sloan Docs' estate planning solutions today and take the next step toward keeping your plan current.