Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Create or Update Your Estate Plan
Sunshine, relaxation, family barbecues—summer is a season for making memories. But while you're planning vacations and pool days, it’s also an ideal time to plan for the future. Creating or updating your estate plan now can offer peace of mind so you can enjoy the season knowing your loved ones are protected and your wishes are clear.
At Hayden Lake Law, we believe that estate planning isn’t just a legal task—it’s a gift to your family. And summer is one of the best times to make it happen. Here’s why.
Summer Is a Season of Reflection
Between camping trips, lake days, and family reunions, summer often brings us face-to-face with what matters most: the people we love.
Whether you're watching your kids play in the sprinkler, visiting grandparents, or hosting the annual Fourth of July cookout, these moments highlight the importance of family, legacy, and protecting what you’ve worked hard to build.
Estate planning allows you to do exactly that. Through tools like wills and trusts, you can ensure that your family will be taken care of no matter what the future holds.
➡️ Learn more about setting up a trust in Idaho
Why Summer Is the Right Time for an Estate Plan
1. More Flexible Schedules
With kids out of school and many workplaces offering flexible summer hours, it's easier to carve out time to meet with an estate planning attorney. Even if you're traveling, virtual consultations make it easy to get started no matter where you are.
2. Family Conversations Are Easier in Person
Summer family gatherings offer the chance to have meaningful conversations about your wishes, responsibilities, and goals. If you’ve already created your estate plan, you can take the opportunity to share your intentions with your family. If you haven’t yet, discussing it with your spouse or adult children during a weekend together might be the push you need.
3. A Fresh Start Mid-Year
We often associate estate planning with the New Year, but why wait? Summer gives you a mid-year opportunity to check in with your financial and legal health—especially if you've recently experienced a major life event like:
Buying a new home
Having a child or grandchild
Starting or selling a business
Marriage or divorce
Health concerns or diagnosis
Retirement or relocation
What Can Be Included in an Estate Plan?
Your estate plan can be simple or complex, depending on your life circumstances. Here are the most common components:
✅ Will
A will outlines how your assets should be distributed, names guardians for minor children, and designates an executor to manage your estate.
➡️ Explore our Idaho Will Services
✅ Trust
A trust allows for more privacy, control, and often avoids probate. It’s especially helpful if you own property in multiple states, have a blended family, or want to control how and when your assets are passed down.
➡️ Learn how to create a trust in Idaho
✅ Power of Attorney
Designates someone to handle your financial or medical affairs if you become unable to do so.
✅ Healthcare Directive
Also known as a living will, this outlines your medical wishes in case you’re incapacitated.
Idaho vs. Washington Estate Planning: Know the Difference
Live on the border between Idaho and Washington? You’re not alone—and you need to know how estate planning differs by state.
For example, Idaho is a community property state, while Washington’s trust and probate laws vary significantly. The wrong structure could create tax complications, court delays, or unintended asset distribution.
➡️ Understand the difference between Idaho and Washington Trusts
Working with a law firm like Hayden Lake Law, which has deep knowledge of both Idaho and Washington regulations, ensures that your estate plan will hold up—no matter where your assets lie.
Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Elderly
One of the biggest misconceptions about estate planning is that it’s only for retirees. But life can change in a heartbeat—and accidents don’t take a vacation.
You should consider creating or updating your estate plan if:
You’re married (especially if you have children)
You own a home or business
You’ve started investing or saving for retirement
You’ve recently lost a loved one
You’re a single parent
You want to leave a legacy to charity or loved ones
Even young adults benefit from powers of attorney and healthcare directives, particularly if they’re traveling or heading off to college this summer.
Summer To-Do List: Add Estate Planning
We know—you'd rather be out on the lake than thinking about legal documents. But here’s the good news: a comprehensive estate plan can often be completed in just a few weeks. Once it’s done, you’ll gain the peace of mind that your family is protected, and your wishes are clear.
Quick Summer Checklist for Estate Planning:
✅ Schedule a consultation with an estate planning attorney
✅ Gather information on your assets, debts, and insurance policies
✅ Discuss your goals with your spouse or family
✅ Review guardianship choices for minor children
✅ Choose executors, trustees, and beneficiaries
✅ Consider updating old documents
✅ Store your finalized plan in a safe, accessible location
Bonus: It Can Save You (and Your Family) Money
Without an estate plan, your loved ones may face court fees, delays, and taxes. A trust can help avoid Idaho’s probate process, and thoughtful planning can reduce estate taxes and legal headaches for those you leave behind.
The cost of creating a will or trust is minimal compared to the financial burden your family could face if you leave things to chance.
A Summer Legacy Worth Leaving
While you're snapping photos, boating at Hayden Lake, or enjoying long nights under the stars, take a moment to think about the legacy you’re building. A well-crafted estate plan is an extension of your love for your family—it protects them during life’s most difficult moments.
Let Hayden Lake Law help you build that peace of mind this summer.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a secure future.
Estate planning isn't about anticipating the worst—it's about preparing the best for those you care about most. And there’s no better time to plan for peace of mind than the bright, warm days of summer.
By carefully considering the need for a trust and the benefits it can provide, you can make informed decisions about your estate planning. Hayden Lake Law is committed to helping you navigate this complex process, providing personalized and professional services to protect your legacy and support your loved ones. This article is meant to be informational and should not be considered legal advice.