Why a Trust Is Your Best Tool to Avoid Probate
Probate can turn the passing of loved ones into a lengthy, costly court process. By creating a trust, you hand control of your assets to a trusted person or institution and avoid the probate court entirely. This not only expedites the distribution of your estate but also provides privacy, saves money, and reduces stress for your family.
What Is a Trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement in which one party (the trustee) holds and manages assets for the benefit of another (the beneficiary). Unlike a Will—which must go through probate—a properly funded trust takes effect as soon as it’s signed, keeping your estate matters out of public court records.
How a Trust Helps You Avoid Probate
When you transfer ownership of your property, investments, and bank accounts into a trust, those assets no longer form part of your probate estate. Your successor trustee can distribute funds and property according to your instructions without petitioning a judge or waiting for court approval. The result is a faster, more private transition of assets.
Types of Trusts and Their Benefits
Revocable Living Trust
A revocable living trust lets you maintain control over your assets during your lifetime and change beneficiaries or trustees at any time. It’s the most popular option for homeowners looking to avoid probate.
Irrevocable Trust
Once established, an irrevocable trust generally cannot be modified. It offers stronger asset protection and may reduce estate taxes, but it requires giving up direct control of those assets.
Specialized Trusts
There are trusts tailored for specific needs—special needs trusts to protect government benefits, charitable trusts for philanthropy, and more. Each keeps assets out of probate while serving a unique purpose.
Key Advantages of a Trust
- Immediate Effect: Assets transfer at your passing without waiting for court approval.
- Privacy: Trust details remain out of public record, unlike probate proceedings.
- Cost Savings: Avoid court fees and executor costs, preserving more of your estate for beneficiaries.
- Flexibility: Customize distribution schedules, conditions, and guardianship provisions.
- Continuity: Ensure smooth management of assets if you become incapacitated.
Protecting Your Family and Loved Ones
A trust allows you to:
- Choose a guardian for minor children without court intervention.
- Set up staggered distributions for young beneficiaries.
- Provide instructions for medical and financial care in case of incapacity.
- Ensure your pets are cared for under a caretaker and funding plan.
Why Choose FastWill to Set Up Your Trust
FastWill makes creating a fully customized trust simple, affordable, and legally valid. In about 15 minutes, you can complete your estate plan online, backed by attorney-designed documents and remote notary services. With plans starting at $199, you save hundreds compared to hourly attorney fees while receiving the same high-quality guidance.
- Easy step-by-step system: Work at your own pace with clear prompts.
- Attorney support: Add one hour of unlimited legal advice for $299.
- Remote notarization: Get documents signed and stamped from home.
- Trust funding guidance: Access instructions for transferring every asset type.
Getting Started Is Quick and Secure
Setting up your trust with FastWill takes minutes and ensures your loved ones bypass probate court altogether. Protect your property, investments, and family future with a solution designed for homeowners and individuals alike.
