Searching for effective ways to shield your assets and protect your loved ones? Establishing a trust can provide the structure, flexibility, and legal safeguards you need to ensure your estate is handled exactly as you intend. With FastWill, you can create a fully customized trust in minutes—no lawyer appointment required and complete with remote notary services.

What Is a Trust and Why It Matters

A trust is a legal arrangement in which one person, the grantor, transfers assets to a trustee who holds and manages those assets for the benefit of named beneficiaries. Unlike a simple will, a trust can avoid probate court, maintain privacy, and give you more control over how and when your assets are distributed.

• Revocable Trust: You can modify or revoke it during your lifetime.
• Irrevocable Trust: Transfers assets out of your estate permanently for stronger asset protection.

How a Trust Shields Your Assets

One of the primary reasons people establish a trust is to protect assets from probate delays, creditor claims, and legal disputes. Here’s how:

• Probate Avoidance: Assets in a trust pass directly to beneficiaries without court supervision.
• Privacy: Trust documents are not public record, so your estate plan remains confidential.
• Creditor Protection: In many states, properly structured irrevocable trusts can keep assets out of creditors’ reach.
• Tax Efficiency: Certain trusts can reduce estate and gift taxes for high-net-worth individuals.

Protecting Loved Ones with a Trust

A trust isn’t just about property—it’s about peace of mind for you and security for those you care about most. Consider these protective features:

• Minor Protection: Name guardians and trustees who will manage assets for underage children until they reach a specified age.
• Special Needs Trust: Provide for family members with disabilities without disqualifying them from government benefits.
• Pet Trust: Ensure ongoing care for your pets by appointing caretakers and allocating funds.
• Staggered Distributions: Release inheritances in phases—at ages 25, 30, and 35—so beneficiaries don’t receive a lump sum too early.

Key Advantages of Establishing a Trust with FastWill

• Easy-to-Use System: Complete your customized trust in about 15 minutes with our step-by-step online process.
• Attorney-Designed Documents: Every form is drafted by licensed attorneys and tailored to your state’s legal standards.
• Best Value: Starting at $199, you’ll save hundreds over traditional hourly rates.
• Remote Notary Services: Sign and notarize from home via video conference—no office visit required.
• Optional Attorney Support: Add on one hour of unlimited attorney guidance for $299 to review your plan line by line.

Step-by-Step: Creating a Trust Using FastWill

1. Visit the FastWill website and choose the Trust package.
2. Answer simple questions about you, your family, and your assets.
3. Select the type of trust that meets your goals (revocable or irrevocable).
4. Name your trustees, successor trustees, and beneficiaries.
5. Review the draft documents, schedule a remote notary, and sign.
6. Fund your trust by retitling bank accounts, real estate, and investments in the trust’s name.

Once your trust is fully funded, your assets are shielded from probate and ready to benefit your loved ones exactly as you planned.

Trust vs. Will: Which Should You Choose?

While a will sets out your final wishes, a trust offers additional benefits:

• After-Death Effect: Wills take effect only upon your death; trusts can operate immediately.
• Probate Avoidance: Wills must go through probate; trusts do not.
• Flexibility: Trusts allow complex distribution schedules and protective provisions.
• Cost Over Time: Trusts involve upfront setup, but savings on probate and legal fees often outweigh initial costs.

Funding Your Trust: Tips and Best Practices

Creating a trust is only half the battle—transferring assets into it is essential. Follow these guidelines:

• Real Estate: Execute and record new deeds transferring property to your trust.
• Bank Accounts: Change account titles to list the trust as the owner.
• Investments: Update the registration of brokerage and retirement accounts.
• Business Interests: Amend partnership or LLC agreements to assign your interest to the trust.

If you need help, FastWill offers detailed trust funding support and step-by-step guidance.

Common Questions About Trusts

Can I change or revoke my trust?

Yes—if you create a revocable trust, you retain full control and can amend or terminate it at any time. An irrevocable trust generally cannot be changed without consent from beneficiaries or court approval.

How much does it cost to establish a trust?

With FastWill, trust packages start at just $199. This flat fee includes attorney-designed forms and remote notarization, a fraction of the cost of hiring a private attorney.

Is a trust only for wealthy people?

No. While high-net-worth individuals benefit from advanced asset protection, anyone with property, investments, or concerns for their family’s future can gain peace of mind with a trust.

Do I still need a will if I have a trust?

Yes. A “pour-over” will ensures any assets you forget to transfer into your trust during your lifetime still get directed to your trust upon death.

Next Steps: Secure Your Family’s Future Today

Setting up a trust is one of the most proactive steps you can take to protect your legacy and provide for your loved ones. With FastWill’s easy online system, attorney support, and remote notary services, you’ll have a legally valid, fully customized trust in minutes. Don’t leave your family’s well-being to chance—get started with FastWill today and take control of your estate planning journey.

Get Started with FastWill Today