As we settle into 2026, many of us are focused on New Year's resolutions: losing weight, saving money, or finally organizing that cluttered garage. But there's one resolution that often gets overlooked, despite its critical importance: getting your estate plan in order. Whether you're just starting to think about estate planning or you created documents years ago that are gathering dust, 2026 is an ideal time to take action. Here are five essential estate planning goals to prioritize this year, and why now is the perfect moment to check them off your list.

1. Create Your Estate Plan (If You Haven't Already)

If you don't yet have an estate plan, making one should be your top priority. Many people assume estate planning is only for the wealthy or elderly, but that's a common misconception. If you own any assets, have minor children, or want a say in your medical care should you become incapacitated, you need an estate plan.

At minimum, a basic estate plan typically includes a will, a durable power of attorney, a healthcare power of attorney, and an advanced healthcare directive (living will). These documents ensure your wishes are honored and can save your loved ones from unnecessary stress, conflict, and expense during an already difficult time.

Why 2026? There's no better time than the present. Life is unpredictable, and having these foundational documents in place provides peace of mind that your family and assets are protected, no matter what happens. If the best day to start planning was yesterday, the second-best day is today!

2. Update Outdated Documents

Even if you created an estate plan years ago, it may no longer reflect your current wishes or circumstances. Life changes like marriages, divorces, births, deaths, relocations, and changes in financial situations can all impact how your estate should be structured.

Review your existing documents and ask yourself: Are the executors, trustees, and guardians I named still the right choices? Have my assets changed significantly? Are my beneficiary designations current? Has the law changed in ways that affect my plan?

Why 2026? Tax laws, family dynamics, and personal priorities evolve. The start of a new year is a natural checkpoint to ensure your estate plan still aligns with your life as it is today, not as it was when you first created your documents.

3. Optimize Your Plan for Current Tax Laws

Estate tax laws are constantly evolving, and 2026 brings particularly important considerations. The federal estate tax exemption is changing this year as certain provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expire. Understanding how these changes affect your estate and taking proactive steps now can potentially save your heirs significant tax burdens.

Beyond federal estate taxes, consider state estate taxes, gift taxes, and income taxes that may impact your beneficiaries. Strategic planning—such as gifting strategies, trust structures, or charitable giving—can help minimize tax liability while maximizing what you leave to your loved ones.

Why 2026? With significant tax law changes taking effect this year, working with an experienced estate planning attorney to restructure or refine your plan is more critical than ever. The time to act is now to ensure you're positioned optimally under the new rules.

4. Address Digital Assets and Modern Considerations

We live in an increasingly digital world, yet many estate plans fail to account for digital assets. Your digital footprint likely includes online banking accounts, cryptocurrency, social media profiles, photo storage, email accounts, and subscription services. Without proper planning, your loved ones may struggle to access or manage these assets after you're gone.

Additionally, modern families often have complex dynamics—blended families, unmarried partners, estranged relatives—that require thoughtful planning to ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.

Why 2026? As digital assets become more valuable and family structures continue to evolve, addressing these considerations is more important than ever. Make this the year you create a comprehensive digital asset inventory and ensure your estate plan reflects the realities of modern life.

5. Communicate Your Plan with Loved Ones

Creating an estate plan is only half the battle. One of the most overlooked aspects of estate planning is communication. Your loved ones should know that you have a plan, where to find important documents, and ideally, what your general wishes are.

This doesn't mean you need to disclose every detail of your estate, but having open conversations can prevent confusion, reduce family conflict, and ensure that the people you've designated to carry out your wishes (executors, trustees, healthcare proxies) understand their roles.

Why 2026? Starting the year with these conversations sets a positive tone and demonstrates your care for your family's future. It's never too early to begin these discussions, and your loved ones will appreciate knowing you've planned ahead.

Make 2026 Your Year for Estate Planning

Estate planning isn't about dwelling on mortality—it's about taking control of your legacy and protecting the people you love. Whether you're starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, the goals outlined above will help ensure your estate plan is comprehensive, current, and aligned with your values.

Don't wait for a crisis or major life event to prompt action. This year, make estate planning a priority. Your future self—and your loved ones—will thank you.

Ready to get started? The Law Office of Andrew J. Mertzenich is here to help you navigate every aspect of estate planning with personalized attention and expert guidance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones.

Visit us at www.MertzenichLaw.com or call to learn more about how we can help you achieve your estate planning goals in 2026 and beyond.