Spring is all about fresh starts — open windows, decluttered rooms, and lighter days ahead. But as we clear out closets and reorganize garages, there’s one area most people overlook: their financial lives.

Just like your home, your finances need regular maintenance. Over time, old documents pile up, outdated policies linger, and critical details—like who inherits what—can drift out of date without you even realizing it.

This spring, take a few simple steps to give your financial house the same fresh start you're giving your home.

1. Organize Old Statements and Records

If your filing cabinet or digital folders are overflowing with outdated statements, receipts, or insurance policies, it’s time for a purge.

Why It Matters:
Disorganized paperwork makes it harder for you—or your loved ones—to find critical documents when they’re needed most, especially in an emergency.

Action Steps:

• Shred old bank and credit card statements you no longer need (generally anything older than 3–7 years, unless it’s tax-related).
• Digitize important documents like wills, trusts, and insurance policies for easy access.
• Keep a master list of where key accounts, policies, and contacts are located.

Think of it as building a roadmap for your family — so no one is left guessing if the unexpected happens.

2. Review Your Beneficiaries

Life changes — and so should your beneficiary designations.

Why It Matters:
Beneficiary forms on retirement accounts, life insurance, and investment accounts override what's written in your will. That means if your documents are outdated, your money could end up in the wrong hands.

Action Steps:

• Double-check who you've named as beneficiaries on all accounts (401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance, annuities, etc.).
• Update them if there’s been a major life change—like a marriage, divorce, birth, or death.
• Consider naming contingent (backup) beneficiaries as well.

A simple review can prevent heartbreaking mistakes and ensure your assets go exactly where you intend.

3. Assess Outdated Insurance Policies

Insurance isn’t a "set it and forget it" deal. What you needed 10 or 20 years ago may not match the needs you have today.

Why It Matters:
Carrying outdated or inadequate insurance could leave your family under-protected—or paying for coverage that no longer makes sense.

Action Steps:

• Review life, disability, and long-term care insurance policies to ensure coverage still fits your current goals and circumstances.
• If your income, debt levels, or family situation has changed, you may need to adjust your coverage amounts.
• Consider whether newer policy options offer better features or lower costs.

Protecting your loved ones means making sure your insurance still serves its purpose.

A Fresh Start That Lasts

Spring cleaning your finances isn’t just about getting organized—it’s about protecting your future, making life easier for your loved ones, and creating a foundation for long-term peace of mind.

Taking just a few hours now to refresh your documents, beneficiaries, and policies can save countless headaches and heartaches later.

Need a hand getting started?
We specialize in helping individuals and families bring clarity, security, and strategy to their financial lives.
Reach out today for a complimentary financial review — and step into the next season of life with confidence.