How to ask for LOR's 3 yrs after Graduating

[hollisevey]

Hi,

I am looking to go back to school for an MSW in Fall of 2021, I know I have a long time until applications open, much less need to be submitted, but I am wondering if I should start asking about letters of  recommendation now? 

I graduated from undergrad in 2017 and most of the schools I've been looking into applying to require 1 lor from a professor if you're within 5 years of graduating. I was very close with a few of my professors (went to acting school so it's hard not to be) but, I've totally changed careers since then and I haven't spoken to any of my profs in years. I'm wondering when I should reach out, and what would be important to include in my ask?