Every October, National Estate Planning Awareness Week serves as a reminder of something we often put off far too long — planning for the future. This year, it falls on the week of October 20th, and it’s the perfect time to take stock of where you are, what you’ve accomplished, and what you still need to do to make sure your wishes and your loved ones are protected.

As the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils explains: 

“Estate planning encompasses the growth, conservation, and transfer of an individual’s wealth through the creation and maintenance of an ‘estate plan.’ The purpose of estate planning is to develop a strategy that will maintain the financial security of individuals through their lifetime and ensure the intended transfer of their property and assets at death, while taking into consideration the unique circumstances of the family and the potential costs of different methods.”

That’s a formal way of saying this: estate planning isn’t just about death and taxes — it’s about making sure you and your family are taken care of, no matter what life brings.

This year, we’ve covered a wide range of estate planning topics designed to help you feel more confident and better prepared. Here’s a look back at some of the most important lessons from this past year — and how they fit into the bigger picture of protecting your future.

1.  Managing Taxes Like A Pro

Taxes are top of mind these days. Income taxes alone can be confusing and overwhelming to think about. Here’s some good news and some great news.

First, working with a tax professional will help you manage your tax burden.  Organizing your information for tax preparation  is also a great opportunity to make sure your assets are all properly tied to your estate plan and that plan is up-to-date.

Second, big changes in your financial picture, such as an inheritance, can change your tax picture as well. If you are inheriting assets, especially qualified assets like an IRA or Roth IRA, make sure to work with professionals to map out an effective strategy for managing the income tax obligations.

Third, the federal estate tax exemption is at an all-time high! In 2026 individuals have an exemption amount of $15 million, or $30 million for married couples. Most estates will not owe federal estate tax. If you do have a taxable estate, there are strategies available to help minimize that burden.

What does this mean for you? You don’t have to be a CPA to manage your taxes wisely. You just need a team that helps you make smart, informed decisions year-round — not just at tax time.

Want a refresher on this topic? Click here to read the full blog about Managing Taxes Like a Pro.

2.  Keeping Seniors Digitally Safe and Secure

As more financial and legal documents move online, digital security has become a crucial part of estate planning — especially when you’re a senior. Scammers target older adults with alarming frequency, and one data breach or phishing attempt can undo years of careful planning. 

Some practical tips to keep you safe online are: 

• Enable two-factor authentication

• Have strong, unique passwords

• Be cautious about emails asking you for personal or financial information 

• Review online accounts regularly for suspicious activity. 

Your estate plan should include instructions for digital assets — everything from online bank accounts and investment portals to photos stored in the cloud. These details make it easier for your loved ones to manage things smoothly later on. 

Want a refresher on this topic? Click here to read the full blog about Keeping Seniors Digitally Safe and Secure.

3. What’s a Will — and What Does It Do?

A Will documents your wishes on a variety of decisions like who should administer your estate, inherit assets (or not), and serve as guardians of your minor children. When properly executed, it can advise a judge and be enforced through court orders. Even when you are using other tools to pass on assets after your death, a Will is an important document to have. It serves as a backup to other estate planning tools.. If you don’t have a will, your voice is silenced if these decisions are being made for your children. We also discussed how a will alone may not be enough for everyone. Depending on your situation, you might also need a trust, powers of attorney, and advance directives to make sure your plan covers all aspects of your life and legacy.

Want a refresher on this topic? Click here to read the full blog about What’s a Will — and What Does It Do?

4. What is a Special Needs Trust — and Why Does it Matter?

If you care for a loved one with special needs, there are some unique challenges to face when it comes to estate planning. Leaving money or property directly to someone receiving government benefits can unintentionally disqualify them from important programs like Medicaid or SSI. 

When you create a Special Needs Trust (SNT), it gives you a solution. You get to put funds aside for the care and quality of life for your loved one, all without putting their eligibility for public benefits in jeopardy. The trust can pay for things like education, recreation, and medical needs not covered by government programs.

An SNT is a powerful way to ensure your loved one is supported for the long term — with both financial security and dignity. 

Want a refresher on this topic? Click here to read the full blog about What is a Special Needs Trust — and Why Does it Matter?

5. What Does a Marital Change Mean for Your Estate Plan?

Just as your life changes, your estate plan should too. If you get married, divorced, or lose your spouse, these events can bring important legal and financial shifts that deserve a closer look. 

When your marital status changes, it’s essential to review your entire plan. Update your beneficiaries, retitle assets as needed, and consider how new relationships or family dynamics might affect your legacy. For newlyweds, this might mean blending finances and creating a joint plan, or updating separate plans to acknowledge and account for a spouse. For those recently divorced or widowed, it may mean revisiting powers of attorney or reassigning executors and trustees.

Here’s the bottom line: as your life changes, your estate plan should change with it.

Want a refresher on this topic? Click here to read the full blog about What Does a Marital Change Mean for Your Estate Plan?

6. What You Need to Know About Survivor’s Benefits from Social Security

Losing a loved one is never easy, and the financial aftermath can be overwhelming. That’s why understanding Social Security Survivor Benefits is so important. These benefits can offer important financial help to you as a surviving spouse, former spouse, or dependent children.

We explored how to determine eligibility, what paperwork to file, and when to apply for benefits. For many families, these benefits help bridge the gap during an emotionally and financially difficult time. Even if you’re not currently facing a loss, knowing the basics now can help you plan ahead — and make sure your loved ones have access to the support they’ll need later.

Want a refresher on this topic? Click here to read the full blog about What You Need to Know About Survivor’s Benefits from Social Security.

Looking Ahead: A Plan That Grows With You

Over the past year, we’ve talked about taxes, wills, digital safety, special needs planning, and more — all pieces of one bigger puzzle. Together, these pieces create a strong foundation for a plan that protects you during your lifetime and carries out your legacy just the way you envision. Estate planning isn’t something you do once and forget — it’s a living plan that should grow and adapt as your life, assets, and goals change.

National Estate Planning Awareness Week is your yearly reminder to pause and ask yourself a few simple questions: Does my plan still reflect my life today? Have I reviewed my beneficiaries recently? Does my family know where my important documents are? If the answer to any of those questions is “I’m not sure,” this is the perfect time to take action.

Schroeder Larsen Law is Here to Help You!

As the NAEPC reminds us, estate planning is about more than just transferring wealth — it’s about maintaining your financial security throughout your lifetime and protecting your family’s future. 

At Schroeder Larsen Law, I help you build that kind of lasting security by creating personalized estate plans that reflect your goals, values, and family dynamics. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, I’ll guide you through each step so you can move forward with confidence, knowing your wishes and loved ones are protected.

Click Here to Schedule a Consultation With Me Today!