A Season for Financial Reflection
As autumn arrives, many people naturally take stock — of their finances, their goals, and the people who matter most.
October isn’t just about changing leaves and cooler weather; it’s also Estate Planning Awareness Month, making it the ideal moment to review your estate plan.
At Keel Financial, we often remind clients that estate planning is not a one-time event — it’s a lifelong process that evolves alongside your family, your wealth, and your priorities. Taking time this fall to revisit your plan can ensure everything still aligns with your financial strategy and personal values.
1. Life Changes Mean Your Estate Plan Should Change Too
Life moves quickly — and your estate plan should keep pace.
If it’s been more than a couple of years since you last updated your documents, now is the time to check for any changes that might affect your plan.
Consider reviewing your plan if you’ve experienced:
- A marriage, divorce, or new addition to the family
- A change in home ownership or residence
- A business transition, sale, or retirement
- A shift in financial goals, charitable intentions, or legacy plans
Even small details like updated contact information, guardianship designations, or beneficiary listings can make a meaningful difference when it matters most.
2. Coordinating Your Estate Plan With Your Financial Strategy
A well-designed estate plan doesn’t exist in isolation — it’s part of a bigger picture. Your financial advisor, estate attorney, and CPA should all work in coordination to ensure your wealth plan is both efficient and intentional.
At Keel Financial, we take a holistic approach to planning.
That means aligning your investments, trusts, and tax strategies so that each component supports your broader goals — whether that’s protecting family wealth, mitigating estate taxes, or creating a lasting charitable legacy.
This level of collaboration can help:
- Reduce unnecessary tax exposure
- Ensure assets are properly titled or transferred
- Keep your estate plan in sync with your evolving financial life
3. October Is Ideal for Year-End Planning
October provides a timely window before year-end financial deadlines to make strategic adjustments.
By reviewing your estate plan now, you’ll have ample time to make tax-efficient decisions — such as completing charitable donations, updating gifting strategies, or reviewing retirement account beneficiaries.
As we enter the final quarter of the year, consider it your opportunity to ensure your estate plan and financial plan are working hand-in-hand to support your 2025 goals and beyond.
4. Confidence Is the Real Return
At its heart, estate planning isn’t about paperwork — it’s about seeking confidence.
It’s about ensuring your family will have clarity when they need it most and that your legacy reflects not only your assets, but also your values.
Thoughtful estate planning strategies allow you to:
- Provide stability for loved ones
- Protect your assets across generations
- Create a meaningful impact through charitable giving
At Keel Financial, we believe this kind of preparation is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family.
Your Next Step
If it’s been a few years since your last review, or if you’ve experienced any major life changes, October is the perfect time to take another look.
A short, proactive meeting with your advisor today can help prevent complications — and create confidence — for years to come.
👉 Ready to review your plan?
Schedule a conversation with your Keel Financial advisor to ensure your estate plan truly reflects your goals and values.
Disclosures
Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
