When you remarry, your estate plan may no longer reflect your current wishes. Indiana law may give rights to your new spouse that override what your previous documents say. If you want your estate distributed the way you choose, you need to revisit your plan.
Your new spouse may have automatic rights
Indiana law gives a surviving spouse certain inheritance rights, even if you leave them out of your will. Unless you update your estate plan, your new spouse could receive part of your estate, even if you planned to leave everything to your children or someone else. The exact amount depends on whether you have children from a previous marriage.
Stepchildren are not automatic heirs
If you want your stepchildren to inherit from you, you need to include them in your will or trust. Indiana law does not treat stepchildren as legal heirs unless you adopt them. Without a clear plan, they may receive nothing, even if you helped raise them.
Old documents may conflict with your intentions
Your former spouse might still be listed on beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, or life insurance policies. If you forget to update these documents, your ex could end up with assets or decision-making power. After a remarriage, review every part of your estate plan to make sure it matches your current situation.
Remarriage changes the structure of your family and finances. You may want to provide for your new spouse while still protecting your children’s inheritance. A trust can help you control how and when your assets get distributed. Don’t rely on outdated documents to speak for you.
