A complete estate plan is more than a will. It coordinates how assets are owned, who can act for you during incapacity, how property passes at death, and how your family can carry out your instructions.
Tell us what you're trying to protect or accomplish. We'll help you understand the options that may fit.
The documents and ownership structure should work together. Having a trust or will alone does not automatically mean every asset is coordinated with the plan.
Can provide a framework for managing properly funded trust assets during life, incapacity, and after death, and may help avoid probate for assets properly titled to the trust.
Directs the disposition of probate assets, names a personal representative, and can nominate guardians for minor children. A pour-over will may work alongside a living trust.
Financial powers of attorney and healthcare documents can identify who may act for you if you cannot manage financial or medical decisions yourself.
A will and a revocable living trust serve different functions and often work together. Whether a trust is appropriate depends on your assets, family structure, goals, and state law.
Read our Trust vs. Will guide →
Clear answers before you make a decision.
Many trust-based estate plans also include a pour-over will. The appropriate documents depend on your assets, family, state law, and goals.
No. A trust generally controls assets that are properly transferred to it or otherwise directed to it. Funding and beneficiary coordination are important implementation steps.
Review after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, relocation, major asset changes, or changes in the people you selected to serve in key roles.
Get clear on your options and how they fit into the bigger picture for your family, assets, and future.
