Can I Update My Will Without Starting Over?~3 min read

You can update your will without rewriting the entire document. In many cases, a simple amendment called a codicil can reflect life changes. Larger updates may call for a new will. The right approach depends on what you want to change. Your life does not stay the same, and your will does not have to stay the same either. Marriage, divorce, new grandchildren, a home purchase, or changes in your wishes may prompt you to revisit your estate plan.

When a Simple Update May Work

If your changes are limited, you may be able to add a codicil to your existing will. A codicil is a written amendment that explains what you want to change while leaving the rest of your will intact.

For example, you might want to:
• Change an executor
• Add a new beneficiary
• Update a specific gift
• Adjust how property is divided

A codicil must be signed with the same legal formalities as your original will. That usually means signing in front of witnesses. Simply writing notes on your will or crossing things out is not enough and can create confusion later.

When It May Be Better to Create a New Will

If your updates are more significant, creating a new will may be the better choice. This often happens after major life events such as remarriage, blended families, business ownership changes, or substantial changes in assets. New situations can also create a need for a trust.

When multiple codicils are attached to a will, the document can become harder to follow. In those situations, a fresh will that revokes the prior version may make things simpler for your loved ones and the probate court.

Why Regular Reviews Matter

You may not think about your will every year but reviewing it every few years is a good habit. Laws change. Family relationships shift. Financial situations evolve. Elder care planning becomes more pertinent. Looking at your documents periodically helps you confirm that your wishes are still reflected accurately and your assets are best protected. Even if you decide not to make changes, a review can give you peace of mind.

Contact Springer Lyle & Dameron

If you have not looked at your estate planning documents in a while, now may be a good time to review your options. The attorneys at Springer Lyle & Dameron can help you decide whether a codicil or a new will fits your goals and how it works with the rest of your estate plan. To schedule a consultation, contact Aubry Dameron at 940-387-0404.

Springer Lyle & Dameron is located at 1807 Westminster St, Denton, Texas 76205.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make changes to my will on my own?
You can draft a codicil yourself, but it must meet your state’s legal requirements. If it is not signed and witnessed properly, it may not be valid.

2. How often should I review my will?
A good rule is every three to five years, or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or significant financial changes.

3. Does a new will cancel my old one?
Yes. A properly drafted new will typically include language that revokes all prior wills and codicils.