Divorce changes everything—including your estate plan. Many people don’t realize that while Nebraska law automatically removes an ex-spouse from a will, it doesn’t affect life insurance, 401(k)s, or other beneficiary designations. That means your ex could still inherit your assets if you don’t update your paperwork. This post explains how Nebraska law treats wills, trusts, and non-probate assets after divorce, why ERISA plans are the biggest “gotcha,” and the key steps to protect your legacy and avoid costly mistakes.

Even a Hollywood legend can get estate planning wrong. Gene Hackman’s outdated will, lack of backups, and missing trust left his $80 million estate in legal limbo—and his family in chaos. If you’re assuming your old will still works or that your spouse will outlive you, this is your reminder: estate planning isn’t something to set and forget. Here’s what went wrong, and how to make sure your plan actually does what it’s supposed to.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly—it’s for anyone who wants to make sure their loved ones are protected and their wishes are honored. From naming guardians for your children to avoiding costly probate, this post breaks down why estate planning matters, what tools you might need, and how to get started with a plan that actually works for you.