Why Summer Is the Perfect Time for Estate Planning

Summer is all about sunshine, travel, and spending quality time with the people you love. It’s also one of the best times to pause, reflect—and finally check “create an estate plan” off your to-do list.

If you’re planning a vacation, sending kids off to camp, or just enjoying a slower season at work, now is the perfect time to get your legal and financial life in order. Here’s why summer estate planning makes sense:

1. You’re Already in Planning Mode for Summer Activities

Whether you’re organizing a family road trip or coordinating childcare while school is out, summer naturally puts you in the mindset of preparation.

That makes it easier to shift gears and think about your estate planning checklist:

• Who would care for your children in an emergency?
• Who would make decisions if you became seriously ill or injured?
• What happens to your assets if something unexpected occurs?

Estate planning answers all of these questions—so your loved ones aren’t left guessing during a crisis.

2. Travel Season Highlights the Need to Update Your Estate Plan

Before you pack your bags and board that flight, take a moment to ask: If something happened to me while I was away, would my family know what to do?

We hope nothing ever happens, of course—but travel brings a natural reminder that life is unpredictable. Putting basic documents in place can offer huge peace of mind while you’re away:

• Will: Directs distribution of your assets
• Power of Attorney: Authorizes someone to handle financial matters
• Temporary Guardian designation: Protects your children
• Healthcare directives: Ensures your medical wishes are followed

3. Summer Is Ideal for Estate Planning Updates and Reviews

Already have an estate plan? Summer estate planning season is perfect for essential updates:

• Review your beneficiaries after major life changes
• Check your guardianship designations as children grow older
• Make updates after marriage, divorce, a new child, or a move
• Verify account information and contact details

Your estate plan should grow with your life. Regular reviews ensure it still reflects your current wishes and circumstances.

4. Flexible Summer Schedules Make Estate Planning Easier

Many people find it easier to attend meetings or complete paperwork during summer’s slower pace—especially if you work in education, have summer Fridays, or are taking some time off.

Creating or updating your estate plan doesn’t take as long as you might think. Most estate planning checklists can be completed in just a few short meetings, making summer the perfect time to tackle this important task.

5. Complete Your Estate Planning Before Fall Gets Busy

We all know how fast the fall can fill up—back-to-school preparations, sports seasons, and holiday planning. Taking care of your summer estate planning now means you can step into the busy season with one major task already accomplished.

Don’t let another year pass without proper estate planning protection for your family.

Your Summer Estate Planning Checklist

To help you get started, here’s a comprehensive estate planning checklist for summer:

Essential Documents:

• Last Will and Testament
• Durable Power of Attorney
• Healthcare Power of Attorney
• HIPAA Authorization
• Guardian designations for minor children

Review and Update:

• Beneficiary designations on all accounts
• Life insurance policies
• Retirement account information
• Digital asset inventory
• Emergency contact information

Let Us Help You Complete Your Summer Estate Planning

At Long Law Group, we make estate planning simple, approachable, and tailored to your family’s needs. Whether you’re just getting started or need to update an estate plan, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Our experienced Chicago estate planning attorneys understand the importance of protecting your family’s future. We’ll help you create a comprehensive plan that gives you peace of mind during your summer travels and beyond.

Don’t let another summer pass without proper estate planning protection. Contact Long Law Group today at 312-344-3644 or Contact@JLongLaw.com to schedule your summer estate planning consultation.

Make this the summer you finally check estate planning off your to-do list.