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The Ultimate Guide to Life-Event & Estate Documents
Wills, estate plans, medical directives, birth and marriage records, personal finance.
Quick answer:
Life-event documents like wills, estate plans, and medical directives don't 'expire' but should be reviewed every 3-5 years or after major changes (marriage, birth, home purchase). Birth certificates and marriage records don't expire, but you often need certified copies.
In short
| Will review cadence | 3-5 years or after major changes |
|---|---|
| Advance directive | State-specific forms |
| Certified copies | Order 2-3 extras |
| Birth certificate | Never expires |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming a decades-old will is still valid after major life changes.
- Storing the only copy at home with no secure backup.
- Not naming a healthcare proxy separately from your executor.
- Losing the original birth certificate and reordering repeatedly.
Every article in this guide
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