Last week, we discussed estate planning for individuals facing deployment. This week, we’re expanding that conversation to include a broader perspective—estate planning for military families as a whole. Whether you’re active-duty, part of the reserves, or a military spouse, your estate plan should reflect the unique challenges and benefits of military life.
Why Military Families Need Specialized Estate Plans
Military life often includes deployments, frequent moves, and unpredictable assignments. These factors make it especially important to have an up-to-date, legally sound estate plan. Service members and their families may also have access to specific benefits—such as Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Survivor Benefit Plans (SBP), and VA benefits—that need to be accounted for in any estate planning strategy.
Factors to Consider When Creating a Plan for Military Families
A good estate plan protects your loved ones during transitions, both expected and unexpected. Here are key areas for military families to address:
1. Family Care Plans (FCPs)
For service members with dependents—especially single parents or dual-military couples—a Family Care Plan is critical. This document outlines who will care for your children or dependents in your absence and what financial, medical, and legal arrangements are in place to support them. While FCPs are primarily an internal military requirement, they must work in tandem with your civilian legal documents (like powers of attorney and guardianship designations).
2. Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives
Deployments and training assignments can pull you far from home. A power of attorney lets your spouse or trusted individual act on your behalf for legal and financial matters while you’re away. Likewise, a health care directive allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions if you become incapacitated. These documents are essential for maintaining continuity and reducing stress on your loved ones during your absence.
3. Wills and Trusts
Every military family should have a will—and in many cases, a trust may also be appropriate. A will allows you to name guardians for minor children, designate beneficiaries, and clarify your wishes for your assets. Trusts, particularly revocable living trusts, can help avoid probate and allow for smoother transitions, especially when families are stationed in multiple states or own property in different locations.
4. Military Benefits and Estate Planning Integration
SGLI, SBP, Thrift Savings Plans (TSP), and other military-specific benefits need to be reviewed periodically. Make sure your beneficiary designations align with your will or trust. These designations typically override what’s written in your estate documents—so if you update one, be sure to update the other. Coordination here is key.
5. Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and State Law Considerations
Each time you PCS, your new state may have different estate planning laws. A durable power of attorney that was valid in one state may not be accepted in another. Reviewing your estate plan after each move—particularly when transferring states—is a smart and necessary step.
6. Special Needs Planning
If you have a child or family member with special needs, a standard estate plan may not offer sufficient protection. A special needs trust can help provide for them without jeopardizing their eligibility for essential government benefits. Military families have access to unique resources like the Dependent Care Medical Program and EFMP, which should also be factored into the planning process.
7. Digital Assets and Online Accounts
As with all modern estate plans, military families should also account for digital assets: email accounts, military portals, cloud storage, banking logins, and social media. Assigning access to these assets is especially helpful during deployment or in the event of death or incapacity.
8. Regular Review and Updates
Military life is anything but static. Promotions, retirements, deployments, births, and PCS orders all signal a need to revisit your plan. Set a regular schedule to review your estate documents—at least every two to three years, or sooner when significant life changes occur.
We Help Military Families Prepare with Confidence
The service and sacrifice of military families deserve thoughtful and informed estate planning. At Skvarna Law, we’re honored to serve those who serve our country. Whether you’re just entering the military or nearing retirement, we can help create an estate plan that meets your needs, protects your loved ones, and adapts with your life.
About Skvarna Law in Glendora & Upland, California
With offices in Upland and Glendora, California, Skvarna Law offers tailored estate planning solutions for clients across Southern California, including many military families. We help clients create wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, and long-term planning strategies that reflect their goals and protect what matters most. If you’re a member of the military or part of a military family, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
