It's a legal document that states who you want to manage and distribute your property if you're unable to do so, and who receives it when you pass away. Once signed, you transfer ownership of your assets into the trust and you remain in complete control of your property. The trust property can be managed and distributed without going through the probate court.

Yes. If you have an individual trust, you can transfer property whenever you want. If you have a shared trust, you'll need your co-trustee's consent if you own the property together.

Yes, because you may not have transferred your property into your trust before you pass away. Our living trusts include a pour-over will. It transfers property still in your name alone when you pass away to the trust to be distributed to your beneficiaries. It also lets you name guardians for your minor children.

Probate is the legal process through which the court oversees how an estate will be distributed. If you signed a last will, your estate passes to the beneficiaries named. If not, your estate passes to relatives based on state law. Generally, a formal probate action is required if an estate includes real property. But in many states, probate isn't required and other legal remedies are available if the estate is of minimal value.

Not at all. People of all income levels can set one up to manage their finances in case they become disabled, or to provide for loved ones without going through probate court, which may be required of relatively modest estates.

It's hard to say, as every person has specific needs. Our customers are often surprised at how easy it is to set up their living trust on their own. If your estate is large or complicated, or you have a child with special needs, you may want to ask an attorney for help.

Gain access to a network of vetted, licensed advocates. Schedule a consultation with an advocate to get answers to estate planning queries, review of completed documents, or discuss any other personal legal concerns. Schedule a call with an advocate to get estate planning questions answered, review completed documents, or discuss other personal legal matters.