New Baby, New Estate Plan: What Every New Parent Should Do First

Few life events are as exciting — or as clarifying — as the birth of a child. Suddenly, everything you own, everything you earn, and every decision you make takes on new significance. An estate plan is no longer something you'll do eventually. It's urgent.

Write a will or update the one you have — this is where you name a guardian for your child. Without it, a court decides who raises them. Name a guardian: think carefully about who shares your values, has a genuine relationship with your child, and is practically positioned to take on this role.

Create a trust for your child's inheritance. Without a trust, a court-appointed guardian of the estate takes control of the money. A trust lets you name a trustee, set distribution terms, and ensure the money is managed the way you'd want.

Review and update life insurance — your income is now essential to another person's wellbeing. Update beneficiary designations to add your child or a trust for their benefit as contingent beneficiary. Review your power of attorney and healthcare directive.

📌 Your new baby changes everything. An estate plan is one of the most loving things you can do for them. Reach out today to get your plan in place.