What is a living trust?

A living trust is a legal document you create while you are alive. It holds your property and assets for your benefit during your lifetime. When you pass away, the trust transfers everything to the people you chose -- your beneficiaries -- without going through probate court. Think of it as a container that holds your assets and comes with instructions for who gets what.

How is a trust different from a will?

A will only takes effect after you die, and a judge must approve it through probate. A trust works while you are alive and after you die. With a trust, your family can skip probate court entirely. This means they get your assets faster, and the details stay private. A will becomes public record once it goes through probate. A trust does not.

Do I need a lawyer to create a trust?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer. Many people successfully create their own trusts using software tools like this one. However, if you have a large estate, own property in multiple states, or have a complicated family situation, talking to an estate planning attorney can help. Our platform walks you through every step with plain-English explanations so you can make an informed choice.

What does 'funding a trust' mean?

Funding a trust means transferring ownership of your assets into the trust. Creating the trust document is just the first step. You then need to change the titles on your property, bank accounts, and other assets so the trust is listed as the owner. An unfunded trust is like an empty box -- it exists, but it does not protect anything until you put your assets inside it.

Can I change my trust after I create it?

If you have a revocable living trust, yes -- you can change it anytime you want. You can add or remove beneficiaries, change trustees, and update which assets are included. You make changes through a document called a trust amendment. Our platform lets you create amendments in minutes. If you have an irrevocable trust, changes are much harder and usually require court approval or agreement from all beneficiaries.

Who are the grantor, trustee, and beneficiary?

The grantor is the person who creates the trust and puts assets into it. The trustee is the person who manages the trust and follows its instructions. The beneficiary is the person who receives the benefits from the trust. In many revocable living trusts, one person fills all three roles during their lifetime. After the grantor passes away, a successor trustee takes over and distributes assets to the beneficiaries.

What is a successor trustee?

A successor trustee is the person who steps in to manage your trust when you no longer can. This happens if you become mentally unable to handle your affairs or after you die. The successor trustee follows the instructions in your trust document. They pay your debts, file tax returns, and distribute your assets to your beneficiaries. Choosing a reliable successor trustee is one of the most important decisions in trust planning.

What happens to my trust if I become incapacitated?

If you become unable to manage your own affairs, your successor trustee takes over immediately. They can pay your bills, manage your investments, and handle your financial matters without going to court. This is actually one of the biggest advantages of a trust over a will. Without a trust, your family would need to go through a court process called conservatorship, which is expensive, slow, and public.

Is a trust the same as an estate plan?

No. A trust is one part of an estate plan. A complete estate plan usually includes a trust, a pour-over will (which catches anything not in the trust), a durable power of attorney, a healthcare directive, and sometimes other documents. Think of the trust as the centerpiece, with the other documents filling in the gaps.

How long does it take to set up a trust?

Using our platform, you can complete the trust document in about 30 to 60 minutes. The wizard walks you through seven simple steps. However, funding the trust -- actually transferring your assets into it -- can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on what you own. Real estate requires recording a new deed. Bank accounts need paperwork at the bank. We give you a checklist for each asset type.

What is the difference between a trust and a trust fund?

A trust is the legal document with all the rules and instructions. A trust fund is the money or property held inside that trust. When people talk about a 'trust fund kid,' they mean someone who benefits from assets held in a trust. You do not need to be wealthy to have a trust. Anyone who owns a home, has savings, or wants to avoid probate can benefit from one.

Can a trust own a house?

Yes. In fact, real estate is one of the most common assets people transfer into trusts. You do this by recording a new deed that changes ownership from your name to the name of your trust. For example, the deed would transfer from 'John Smith' to 'John Smith, Trustee of the John Smith Living Trust dated January 15, 2026.' Your mortgage stays the same, and you still live in the house normally.

Do I lose control of my assets when I put them in a trust?

Not with a revocable living trust. As the grantor and trustee, you control everything exactly as you do now. You can buy and sell property, move money around, and make any changes you want. The trust is transparent for your daily life. You still file the same tax returns. The difference is only felt after you pass away or become incapacitated, when your successor trustee takes over according to your instructions.

What assets should I put in my trust?

Most people put their home, bank accounts, investment accounts, and valuable personal property into their trust. Real estate is a top priority because probating real estate is especially expensive and slow. You generally should not put retirement accounts (IRAs, 401ks) directly into a trust because of tax rules, but you can name the trust as a beneficiary. Our platform gives you specific guidance for each asset type.

Can I be my own trustee?

Yes, and most people are. When you create a revocable living trust, you typically name yourself as both the grantor and the trustee. This lets you keep full control of your assets. You then name a successor trustee who takes over only when you can no longer serve. There is no legal requirement to use a bank, attorney, or professional trustee, though some people choose to.

What is a certificate of trust?

A certificate of trust is a short document that proves your trust exists without revealing all its private details. Banks, title companies, and financial institutions often ask for it when you transfer assets. It shows the trust name, date, trustee names, and powers, but it does not list your beneficiaries or what you own. Our platform generates this document automatically for you.

Does a trust protect my assets from creditors?

A standard revocable living trust does not protect your assets from your own creditors. Because you control the assets, creditors can still reach them. However, an irrevocable trust can provide creditor protection because you give up control of the assets. Some states also have special asset protection trust laws. If creditor protection is your main goal, talk to an attorney about which trust type fits your situation.

What is a pour-over will?

A pour-over will is a safety net for your trust. It says that any assets you forgot to transfer into your trust during your lifetime should 'pour over' into the trust after you die. Those assets still go through probate, but at least they end up distributed according to your trust instructions instead of state default rules. Every trust should have a pour-over will as a backup.

Can married couples share one trust?

Yes. A joint living trust (also called an A-B trust or shared trust) is common for married couples. Both spouses put their shared and individual assets into one trust. The trust document spells out what happens when the first spouse dies and then when the second spouse dies. Some couples prefer separate trusts for asset protection or tax reasons, especially in community property states.

What is probate, and why do people want to avoid it?

Probate is the court process that happens after someone dies. A judge reviews the will, approves the executor, and oversees the distribution of assets. It takes six months to two years on average, costs 3-7% of the estate value, and everything becomes public record. A living trust avoids probate completely because the assets already have a named owner (the trust) and instructions for distribution.

What is a revocable living trust?

A revocable living trust is the most common type. 'Revocable' means you can change or cancel it at any time. You create it while you are alive, put your assets in it, and manage everything yourself as trustee. After you die, your successor trustee distributes the assets to your beneficiaries without probate. It does not save on estate taxes, but it saves time, money, and privacy compared to going through probate court.

What is an irrevocable trust?

An irrevocable trust is one you cannot easily change or cancel after you create it. Once you transfer assets into it, you give up ownership and control. In return, those assets are generally protected from creditors, lawsuits, and estate taxes. Irrevocable trusts are used for tax planning, Medicaid planning, and asset protection. They require careful planning because undoing them is difficult and sometimes impossible.

What is a special needs trust?

A special needs trust (also called a supplemental needs trust) holds assets for a person with a disability without disqualifying them from government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The trust pays for things that government programs do not cover, like personal care items, entertainment, travel, and education. The beneficiary never directly controls the money, so it does not count as their asset for benefits purposes.

What is a charitable trust?

A charitable trust is set up to benefit a specific charity or the public. There are two main types: a charitable remainder trust (CRT) pays income to you or your beneficiaries for a set time, then gives the remaining assets to charity. A charitable lead trust (CLT) works the opposite way -- it pays the charity first, then passes whatever is left to your heirs. Both can provide significant tax benefits.

What is an asset protection trust?

An asset protection trust is designed to shield your wealth from future creditors, lawsuits, and legal judgments. You transfer assets into an irrevocable trust, and because you no longer own them, creditors generally cannot take them. Some states (Nevada, South Dakota, Delaware, and others) allow self-settled asset protection trusts, meaning you can be a beneficiary of a trust you created. Not all states recognize these trusts equally.

What is a family trust?

A family trust holds and manages assets for the benefit of your family members. It can be revocable or irrevocable. Parents often use family trusts to control when and how children receive their inheritance. For example, you might set up the trust to distribute a third of the assets at age 25, another third at age 30, and the rest at age 35. This prevents young heirs from receiving large sums before they are ready.

What is a testamentary trust?

A testamentary trust is created through your will and only takes effect after you die. Unlike a living trust, it does go through probate because it is part of your will. People use testamentary trusts to set conditions on inheritance, like requiring a child to finish college before receiving their share. The downside is the probate requirement, which means delays and public disclosure.

What is a land trust?

A land trust holds real estate. The property title is in the name of a trustee (often a title company or attorney), while you remain the beneficiary with full control. Land trusts provide privacy because public records show the trust name, not your personal name. Real estate investors use them to hold rental properties. Some states do not have specific land trust laws, so check your state's rules.

What is a spendthrift trust?

A spendthrift trust includes a clause that prevents beneficiaries from selling, pledging, or giving away their trust interest before they receive it. It also stops creditors from reaching the trust assets before distribution. Parents and grandparents create spendthrift trusts for heirs who might not handle money well or who face creditor problems. Almost any trust can include spendthrift provisions.

A pet trust provides for the care of your animals after you die or become incapacitated. You name a caretaker, set aside money for food, veterinary bills, and other expenses, and include specific instructions for your pet's care. Most states now legally recognize pet trusts. Without one, your pets may end up in a shelter because there is no legal obligation for anyone to care for them.

Which trust type is right for me?

For most people, a revocable living trust is the best starting point. It avoids probate, provides for incapacity, and keeps your affairs private. If you need creditor protection, consider an irrevocable or asset protection trust. If you have a family member with a disability, a special needs trust is essential. If tax planning is your goal, a charitable or irrevocable trust may help. Our wizard asks questions about your goals and recommends the right type.

Can I have more than one trust?

Yes. Many people have multiple trusts for different purposes. For example, you might have a revocable living trust for your personal estate and a separate irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) to keep life insurance proceeds out of your taxable estate. Business owners sometimes have a trust for personal assets and another for business interests. Each trust is a separate legal entity with its own rules.

What is a QTIP trust?

QTIP stands for Qualified Terminable Interest Property. This trust lets you provide for a surviving spouse while controlling where the assets go after both spouses die. It is commonly used in second marriages. The surviving spouse gets income from the trust during their lifetime, but when they die, the remaining assets go to the people you chose -- typically children from your first marriage.

What is a bypass trust (credit shelter trust)?

A bypass trust, also called a credit shelter trust or B trust, is used by married couples to reduce estate taxes. When the first spouse dies, their assets go into an irrevocable trust for the surviving spouse's benefit instead of passing directly to them. This uses the deceased spouse's estate tax exemption. The surviving spouse can receive income and even principal from the trust, but the assets are not counted in their estate when they die.

What is a Medicaid trust?

A Medicaid trust is an irrevocable trust designed to protect assets while qualifying for Medicaid long-term care benefits. You transfer assets into the trust at least five years before applying for Medicaid (this is called the look-back period). The assets are no longer counted as yours for Medicaid eligibility purposes. This trust requires careful timing and planning, and the rules vary by state.

What is a life insurance trust (ILIT)?

An irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) owns your life insurance policy so the death benefit is not included in your taxable estate. For someone with a $5 million life insurance policy, this can save hundreds of thousands in estate taxes. The trust must be set up correctly -- you cannot be the owner or have any incidents of ownership. The ILIT trustee applies for the policy, pays premiums using trust funds, and distributes the proceeds when you die.

What is a generation-skipping trust?

A generation-skipping trust (GST trust) passes assets to grandchildren or later generations while skipping your children's generation. This reduces the total estate taxes paid across generations. Your children can still benefit from the trust during their lifetimes (receiving income or other distributions), but the assets are not included in their estates when they die. There is a separate GST tax exemption that limits how much you can shelter this way.

What is a blind trust?

A blind trust is one where the beneficiary has no knowledge of the specific holdings or investments inside the trust. An independent trustee manages everything without consulting the beneficiary. Politicians and government officials use blind trusts to avoid conflicts of interest. The beneficiary knows the trust exists and can receive distributions, but they do not know what stocks, bonds, or investments the trust holds.

What is a constructive trust?

A constructive trust is not a trust you create on purpose. It is a legal remedy that a court imposes to correct wrongdoing. If someone obtains your property through fraud, breach of duty, or unjust enrichment, a judge can declare that the person holds the property in a 'constructive trust' for your benefit. This forces them to return the property to you. It is a court order, not an estate planning tool.

What is a dynasty trust?

A dynasty trust, sometimes called a perpetual trust, is designed to last for many generations -- potentially forever. It protects family wealth from estate taxes, creditors, and divorce for each new generation. Some states (South Dakota, Nevada, Alaska, and others) have abolished the old rule against perpetuities, allowing trusts to last indefinitely. Dynasty trusts are primarily used by high-net-worth families.

How does the trust creation wizard work?

Our wizard walks you through seven simple steps: (1) Pick your trust type, (2) Enter grantor information, (3) Choose your trustee and successor trustee, (4) Add your beneficiaries and what each one gets, (5) List your assets, (6) Set the trust terms and special instructions, and (7) Review everything and generate your document. Each step has tooltips that explain every field in plain English. Your progress saves automatically.

What information do I need to create a trust?

You need: your full legal name and address, the names and addresses of your trustees and beneficiaries, a list of assets you want to include (property addresses, account information, vehicle details), and decisions about how you want assets distributed. You do not need Social Security numbers for most purposes during creation, but you will need them for tax filings later. Having this information ready before you start makes the process faster.

Can I save my progress and come back later?

Yes. Our wizard automatically saves your work after each step. You can close your browser, come back the next day, and pick up right where you left off. Your data is stored securely in your account. You can also go back to any previous step to make changes before generating the final document.

How do I add beneficiaries to my trust?

In step four of our wizard, you enter each beneficiary's name, relationship to you, and what share they receive. You can assign specific assets to specific people (like 'my daughter gets the house') or assign percentages of the total estate. You can add conditions too, like requiring a beneficiary to reach a certain age. There is no limit on the number of beneficiaries you can add.

What if I need to change my trust later?

For a revocable trust, you create a trust amendment. This is a separate document that changes specific parts of the original trust. You do not need to rewrite the entire trust. Our platform lets you create amendments in just a few minutes. For major changes, some people choose to do a full trust restatement, which replaces the entire trust while keeping the same trust name and date.

How do I transfer my house into my trust?

You need to record a new deed transferring ownership from your name to the trust. The deed typically says something like 'John Smith hereby conveys to John Smith, Trustee of the John Smith Living Trust dated January 15, 2026.' You file this deed with your county recorder's office. In most cases, this does not trigger a reassessment of property taxes or affect your mortgage, thanks to federal law (the Garn-St. Germain Act).

How do I transfer bank accounts into my trust?

Contact your bank and ask to retitle the account in the name of your trust. Bring your certificate of trust (which our platform generates for you). The bank will update the account name. Some banks make this very simple, while others may ask you to open a new account in the trust's name and transfer the funds. The process is similar for investment and brokerage accounts.

What is Schedule A in a trust?

Schedule A is an attachment to your trust document that lists all the assets held in the trust. Think of it as the trust's inventory list. When you add or remove assets, you update Schedule A. Our platform makes this easy with a dedicated asset management section. Keeping Schedule A current is important because it serves as proof of what the trust owns.

Can I revoke my trust?

If your trust is revocable, yes, you can cancel it at any time. You create a formal revocation document, then transfer all the assets back to your personal name. Our platform provides a trust revocation template. Keep in mind that once you revoke the trust, your assets no longer have the protections and benefits the trust provided. You would need to rely on a will for estate distribution, which means going through probate.

Do I need to notarize my trust?

Requirements vary by state. In most states, a trust does not legally need to be notarized, but it is strongly recommended. Notarization makes the trust harder to challenge and is often required when transferring real estate. Some states require notarization for the trust to be valid. Our platform tells you your state's specific requirements during the review step.

What are trust provisions?

Trust provisions are the specific rules and instructions written into your trust document. They cover things like: how and when beneficiaries receive their shares, what powers the trustee has, what happens if a beneficiary dies before receiving their share, rules about selling trust property, and any special conditions you want to include. Our wizard helps you set common provisions with clear explanations of each one.

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TRUST TYPES

Eight Trust Types to Fit Your Situation

Not sure which trust you need? Our wizard asks about your goals and recommends the right type. Browse the options below.

Revocable Living Trust

The most common starting point for estate planning

You maintain full control during your lifetime and can modify or revoke it anytime. Assets transfer to beneficiaries without probate, maintaining privacy and speeding up distribution. However, it offers minimal asset protection since you retain control.

Best For

Homeowners who want to avoid probate
Parents with minor children
Anyone who values privacy

Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT)

Keep life insurance proceeds out of your taxable estate

Holds life insurance policies outside your taxable estate. The death benefit passes to beneficiaries free of estate taxes, which is particularly valuable for high-net-worth families. Once established, you give up control of the policy, but the tax savings can be substantial.

Best For

High-net-worth families with large life insurance policies
Individuals with estates exceeding the federal exemption
Business owners using key-person insurance

Dynasty Trust (Generational Trust)

Multi-generational wealth that lasts forever

Built for multi-generational wealth transfer, these trusts can last for multiple generations (or perpetually in certain states like Nevada, South Dakota, and Delaware). Assets grow tax-free and are protected from beneficiaries' creditors, divorces, and lawsuits across generations.

Best For

Families building multi-generational wealth
High-net-worth individuals in dynasty-friendly states
Business families passing ownership across generations

Asset Protection Trust (Domestic or Offshore)

Shield your wealth from lawsuits and creditors

Specifically structured to shield assets from future creditors, lawsuits, and judgments. States like Nevada, Wyoming, Delaware, and South Dakota offer strong domestic options. These are irrevocable and require giving up some control, but provide robust protection when properly funded in advance of any claims.

Best For

Doctors, surgeons, and medical professionals
Business owners in high-liability industries
Real estate investors and developers

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)

Give back while receiving tax benefits and income

Allows you to donate assets, receive income during your lifetime, and ultimately benefit a charity. You get an immediate tax deduction, avoid capital gains on appreciated assets, and create a family legacy of giving while still receiving income.

Best For

People with highly appreciated assets (stocks, real estate)
Retirees seeking additional income with tax advantages
Philanthropists who want to support charities and family

Family Limited Partnership with Trust

Transfer business interests while maintaining control

Combines a family limited partnership or LLC with trust structures to transfer business interests or real estate at discounted values. Provides asset protection, facilitates gradual wealth transfer to children, and allows senior family members to maintain management control while reducing estate taxes.

Best For

Business owners wanting to transfer ownership gradually
Families with significant real estate holdings
Parents who want children to inherit at discounted values

508(c)(1)(A) Trust

Automatic tax exemption for religious organizations

A specialized trust structure under IRC Section 508(c)(1)(A) for churches, religious organizations, and their integrated auxiliaries. Automatically recognized as tax-exempt without filing Form 1023 or Form 990. Protected by the First Amendment with unique operational privacy.

Best For

Churches and houses of worship
Religious ministries and mission organizations
Faith-based charitable outreach programs

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501(c)(3) Charitable Organization Trust

IRS-recognized tax-exempt charitable status

A trust structured to qualify for tax-exempt status under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Organized and operated exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, scientific, or literary purposes. Donors receive tax deductions for contributions, and the organization is eligible for grants and public funding.

Best For

Charitable foundations and nonprofit organizations
Educational institutions and scholarship programs
Scientific research organizations

Have a Specific Situation?

Need a specialized trust structure? Our trust agents can help you find the right solution for your unique situation. Call us directly for a free consultation.

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THE PROCESS

How the 7-Step Wizard Works

Our guided process makes trust creation straightforward. Every field has a tooltip that explains what it means in plain English. Your progress saves automatically.

Trust creation wizard dashboard on a laptop

Choose Your Trust Type

Answer a few questions about your goals, and our wizard recommends the right trust type for your situation. Or pick one yourself from six options.

Revocable Living Trust -- the most popular choice for probate avoidance
Irrevocable Trust -- for asset protection and tax planning
Special Needs Trust -- protect benefits for a disabled loved one
Charitable Trust -- support causes you care about with tax advantages
Asset Protection Trust -- shield wealth from lawsuits and creditors
Family Trust -- control when and how your heirs receive their inheritance

Choose Your Trust Type

Answer a few questions about your goals, and our wizard recommends the right trust type for your situation. Or pick one yourself from six options.

Revocable Living Trust -- the most popular choice for probate avoidance
Irrevocable Trust -- for asset protection and tax planning
Special Needs Trust -- protect benefits for a disabled loved one
Charitable Trust -- support causes you care about with tax advantages
Asset Protection Trust -- shield wealth from lawsuits and creditors
Family Trust -- control when and how your heirs receive their inheritance

Enter Grantor Information

Tell us about yourself (the trust creator). Your legal name, address, and state of residence. We use this to apply the right state laws to your trust.

Full legal name as it appears on your ID
Current home address
State of residence (determines governing law)
Marital status (affects trust structure for couples)
Every field has an info icon explaining what it means and why we need it

Enter Grantor Information

Tell us about yourself (the trust creator). Your legal name, address, and state of residence. We use this to apply the right state laws to your trust.

Full legal name as it appears on your ID
Current home address
State of residence (determines governing law)
Marital status (affects trust structure for couples)
Every field has an info icon explaining what it means and why we need it

Select Your Trustee

Name the person (or company) who will manage the trust. During your lifetime, that is usually you. Then pick a successor trustee for when you can no longer serve.

Primary trustee (typically yourself for revocable trusts)
Successor trustee -- the person who takes over
Optional: second successor trustee as a backup
Option to name a corporate trustee (bank or trust company)
Plain-English explanation of trustee duties and responsibilities

Select Your Trustee

Name the person (or company) who will manage the trust. During your lifetime, that is usually you. Then pick a successor trustee for when you can no longer serve.

Primary trustee (typically yourself for revocable trusts)
Successor trustee -- the person who takes over
Optional: second successor trustee as a backup
Option to name a corporate trustee (bank or trust company)
Plain-English explanation of trustee duties and responsibilities

Add Your Beneficiaries

Name the people or organizations who will receive assets from your trust. Set their shares, add conditions, and decide how distributions work.

Add unlimited beneficiaries by name and relationship
Assign percentage shares or specific assets to each person
Set age-based distribution schedules (e.g., 1/3 at 25, 1/3 at 30, rest at 35)
Add conditions (education requirements, employment, etc.)
Name contingent beneficiaries in case a primary beneficiary cannot receive their share

Add Your Beneficiaries

Name the people or organizations who will receive assets from your trust. Set their shares, add conditions, and decide how distributions work.

Add unlimited beneficiaries by name and relationship
Assign percentage shares or specific assets to each person
Set age-based distribution schedules (e.g., 1/3 at 25, 1/3 at 30, rest at 35)
Add conditions (education requirements, employment, etc.)
Name contingent beneficiaries in case a primary beneficiary cannot receive their share

List Your Assets

Add the property and accounts you want the trust to hold. Real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, and personal property -- everything gets cataloged.

Real estate (addresses, property type, estimated value)
Bank and savings accounts
Investment and brokerage accounts
Vehicles (make, model, year)
Valuable personal property (jewelry, art, collectibles)
Business interests and ownership stakes
Life insurance policies (where applicable)

List Your Assets

Add the property and accounts you want the trust to hold. Real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, and personal property -- everything gets cataloged.

Real estate (addresses, property type, estimated value)
Bank and savings accounts
Investment and brokerage accounts
Vehicles (make, model, year)
Valuable personal property (jewelry, art, collectibles)
Business interests and ownership stakes
Life insurance policies (where applicable)

Set Trust Terms

Define the rules your trustee must follow. Distribution triggers, trustee powers, spendthrift clauses, and any special instructions you want to include.

Trustee powers (investment, property management, distributions)
Distribution rules and triggers
Spendthrift protection for beneficiaries
No-contest clause to prevent legal challenges
Special instructions (pet care, funeral wishes, etc.)
Governing state law selection

Set Trust Terms

Define the rules your trustee must follow. Distribution triggers, trustee powers, spendthrift clauses, and any special instructions you want to include.

Trustee powers (investment, property management, distributions)
Distribution rules and triggers
Spendthrift protection for beneficiaries
No-contest clause to prevent legal challenges
Special instructions (pet care, funeral wishes, etc.)
Governing state law selection

Review and Generate

Review every detail of your trust in a clear summary. Make any final changes, then generate your professional trust document as a downloadable PDF.

Full summary of all trust details on one page
Edit any section before generating
Generate trust agreement PDF
Generate certificate of trust
Generate Schedule A (asset list)
Download all documents instantly
Print-ready formatting with professional legal language

Review and Generate

Review every detail of your trust in a clear summary. Make any final changes, then generate your professional trust document as a downloadable PDF.

Full summary of all trust details on one page
Edit any section before generating
Generate trust agreement PDF
Generate certificate of trust
Generate Schedule A (asset list)
Download all documents instantly
Print-ready formatting with professional legal language

WATCH IT IN ACTION

See the Trust Creation Wizard in Action

Watch a 3-minute walkthrough of our 7-step wizard. See how easy it is to create a trust from start to finish -- no legal experience needed.

Understanding Trust Types

Creating Your First Trust

Platform Overview

Side-by-Side Comparison

Trust vs. Will: Why a Trust Wins

A will and a trust are both estate planning tools, but they work very differently. Here is a side-by-side comparison of what each one offers your family.

Explore a specific trust type:

Feature

Living Trust

Will Only

Probate required

No probate

Always goes through probate

Privacy

Completely private

Becomes public record

Time to distribute assets

2 to 8 weeks

6 months to 2 years

Cost after death

Minimal (no court fees)

3-7% of estate value

Incapacity protection

Built in -- trustee takes over

None -- requires conservatorship

Multi-state property

One trust covers all states

Separate probate per state

Effective immediately

Works right away

Only after death + court approval

Difficulty to contest

Harder to challenge

Easier to contest in court

Control over distributions

Full control (age, conditions)

Living Trust

Trustee manages continuously

Will Only

Executor only during probate

Bottom line: You need both a trust and a will. But the trust handles 95% of the work and protects your family from probate. The will serves as a backup for anything the trust does not cover.

Trust Education

What Exactly Is a Trust, and Why Does Your Family Need One?

A trust is not just for the wealthy. It is a basic tool that protects every family.

A trust is just a document that names three roles: who owns the assets, who manages them, and who receives them. Here is how those parties relate.

Grantor

Creates the trust and places assets in it

Grantor

Trustee

Manages assets per the instructions

Trustee

Successor Trustee

Steps in at incapacity or death

Beneficiary

Beneficiaries

Receive assets on your terms

Party 4

For a revocable living trust you are usually grantor and trustee at the same time, so daily life does not change.

Key Takeaways

Trusts skip probate, saving your family 3-7% of your estate value

Your estate stays completely private (probate is public record)

A trust protects you during your lifetime if you become incapacitated

Parents can control when and how children receive their inheritance

You do not need to be wealthy to benefit from a trust

Most people hear the word "trust" and think of wealthy families with teams of lawyers. That picture is outdated and wrong. A trust is simply a legal document that says: here are my assets, here is who manages them, and here is who gets them when I am gone.

Listen to this section

Trust Education

The Real Cost of Not Having a Trust: What Probate Does to Your Family

Probate is the default. A trust is the opt-out.

On a $550,000 estate, probate quietly drains roughly $22,000 and 14 months from your family. A funded trust delivers the same assets in weeks for nothing.

Probate vs. Trust on a $550,000 estate

months to distribute

Probate (court process)14 months
Trust (successor trustee)4-8 weeks

PreferredAvoid

Key Takeaways

Probate takes 6 months to 2 years on average

Costs run 3-7% of the total estate value

Every asset and distribution becomes public record

Multiple states mean multiple probate proceedings

A trust eliminates 100% of the probate process

Let's talk about what actually happens when someone dies without a trust.

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Trust Education

Revocable Living Trusts: The Foundation of a Modern Estate Plan

How the most popular trust type works, who needs one, and what to watch out for.

A revocable living trust is the foundation of about 80% of estate plans. Here is what it actually does for you, separated from the myths.

What a revocable living trust does (and does not) do

Avoids probate, saving time, money, and privacy
Provides immediate incapacity protection
Lets you control distributions to beneficiaries
Works across state lines with one document
Keeps your estate completely private
You keep full control as grantor and trustee
Myth: you lose control of your assets
Myth: it lowers your income taxes
Myth: it protects assets from creditors
Myth: you need a lawyer to create one

6 of 10 included

Key Takeaways

You maintain full control as both grantor and trustee

Must be funded (transfer assets in) to actually work

Does not change your income tax situation

Does not provide creditor protection

Becomes irrevocable automatically when you die

A revocable living trust is the starting point for about 80% of estate plans. It is called "revocable" because you can change or cancel it anytime. It is called "living" because you create it while you are alive (as opposed to a testamentary trust, which is created through a will and only activates after death).

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Trust Education

Irrevocable Trusts: When You Need Real Asset Protection

Giving up control to gain protection -- how irrevocable trusts work and who benefits most.

An irrevocable trust trades control for protection. You give up ownership, and in return you get estate tax savings, creditor shielding, and Medicaid planning.

Weighing Your Options

Every trust structure involves tradeoffs. Understanding them is the first step to the right choice.

What you give up

Control and ownership of the assets
The ability to change your mind or undo it
Income taxed at compressed rates (37% at ~$14,450)
Must file its own return (Form 1041)

What you gain

Assets removed from your taxable estate
Strong creditor and lawsuit protection
Medicaid eligibility after the 5-year look-back
ILIT keeps a life insurance payout out of the estate

The right trust depends on your goals. Neither side is wrong — only what fits your situation.

Key Takeaways

Assets are permanently removed from your estate

Strong creditor and lawsuit protection

Can help with Medicaid eligibility planning

Trust income is taxed at compressed rates

Cannot be easily changed or undone

An irrevocable trust is the opposite of a revocable trust in one fundamental way: once you create it and transfer assets in, you cannot easily take them back or change the terms. You give up ownership. The trust becomes a separate legal entity with its own tax ID number and its own tax return.

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Trust Education

What Every Trustee Needs to Know: Duties, Powers, and Liabilities

Being a trustee is a serious job. Here is what it involves.

Being a trustee is a legally binding job. These six fiduciary duties define the role, and violating any of them can trigger personal liability.

The six core fiduciary duties of a trustee

Duty of Loyalty: act in beneficiaries' interest, never your own
Duty of Prudent Administration: manage assets carefully and diversify
Duty to Keep Records: track every transaction accurately
Duty to Inform Beneficiaries: keep them reasonably updated
Duty Not to Delegate Improperly: hire help but keep core decisions
Duty of Impartiality: treat multiple beneficiaries fairly
Self-dealing or favoritism gets you removed
Negligent investing makes you personally liable

6 of 8 included

Key Takeaways

Trustees owe fiduciary duties: loyalty, prudence, record-keeping, impartiality

Violation of duties can result in personal liability

You can hire professionals but cannot fully delegate core responsibilities

Accurate record-keeping is legally required

You can decline or resign from the trustee role

When someone names you as their trustee, they are placing their financial life in your hands. A trustee's responsibilities are legally binding, and courts take violations seriously. Whether you are serving as your own trustee for a revocable trust or have been named as someone else's trustee, you need to understand what the role requires.

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Trust Education

Estate Planning Basics: Building a Complete Plan Around Your Trust

A trust is the centerpiece, but you need supporting documents too.

A trust is the centerpiece, but a complete plan layers supporting documents so every scenario is covered without a courtroom.

Living Trust
Core document: holds assets, names beneficiaries, handles incapacity and death
Pour-Over Will
Catches anything not transferred into the trust
Durable Power of Attorney
Financial decisions for assets outside the trust
Healthcare Directive
States your wishes for medical treatment
Healthcare Power of Attorney
Names someone to make medical decisions
HIPAA Authorization
Lets your people access medical records
Nomination of Guardian
Names who raises your minor children

Living Trust
Core document: holds assets, names beneficiaries, handles incapacity and death
Pour-Over Will
Catches anything not transferred into the trust
Durable Power of Attorney
Financial decisions for assets outside the trust
Healthcare Directive
States your wishes for medical treatment
Healthcare Power of Attorney
Names someone to make medical decisions
HIPAA Authorization
Lets your people access medical records
Nomination of Guardian
Names who raises your minor children

Key Takeaways

A complete plan includes trust, will, power of attorney, and healthcare documents

The pour-over will catches assets missed by the trust

Power of attorney covers assets outside the trust

Healthcare directive and healthcare power of attorney handle medical decisions

Review your plan every 3-5 years or after major life events

Creating a trust is the single most impactful step in estate planning, but it is not the only step. A complete estate plan includes several documents that work together to cover every scenario.

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Trust Education

How to Fund Your Trust: The Step Most People Skip (And Why It Matters)

An unfunded trust is just a stack of paper. Here is how to put assets inside it.

An unfunded trust provides zero protection. Funding means retitling each asset into the trust's name, one category at a time.

Real estate
Record a new deed at the county recorder ($10-$150); Garn-St. Germain protects your mortgage
Bank & savings accounts
Retitle with your certificate of trust
Brokerage accounts
Use the firm's retitle forms (Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard)
Life insurance
Name the trust as beneficiary, do not transfer the policy
Retirement accounts
Name people primary, trust as contingent; never transfer directly
Personal property & business
List in Schedule A; assign LLC or partnership interests

Real estate
Record a new deed at the county recorder ($10-$150); Garn-St. Germain protects your mortgage
Bank & savings accounts
Retitle with your certificate of trust
Brokerage accounts
Use the firm's retitle forms (Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard)
Life insurance
Name the trust as beneficiary, do not transfer the policy
Retirement accounts
Name people primary, trust as contingent; never transfer directly
Personal property & business
List in Schedule A; assign LLC or partnership interests

Key Takeaways

An unfunded trust provides zero protection

Real estate transfers require a new deed filed with the county

The Garn-St. Germain Act protects your mortgage during trust transfers

Never transfer retirement accounts directly into a revocable trust

Our platform provides a customized funding checklist for your assets

Creating a trust document is step one. Transferring your assets into the trust -- called "funding" -- is step two. Many people complete step one and never do step two. An unfunded trust provides zero protection, zero probate avoidance, and zero incapacity planning.

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Trust Education

Trust Laws by State: What You Need to Know Where You Live

Every state has its own trust rules. Here is an overview of the key differences.

Trust law is set state by state. Where you live decides your estate tax threshold, whether you can build a dynasty trust, and how creditor protection works.

Jurisdiction Matters

State-Specific Legal Distinctions

0 jurisdictions

Community property states

AZCAIDLANVNMTXWAWI

Own estate tax (lower threshold)

ORMACTILMDMNNYWA

Domestic asset protection (DAPT)

AKCOCTDEHIINMIMSMONVNHOHOKRISDTNUTVAWVWY

No trust income tax

AKFLNVNHSDTNTXWAWY

Dynasty trust friendly

AKDEIDKYNVNHOHSDWIWY

Key Takeaways

Over 30 states follow the Uniform Trust Code

Community property states affect how married couples structure trusts

12+ states have their own estate taxes with lower thresholds

20+ states allow domestic asset protection trusts

Several states allow trusts to last indefinitely (dynasty trusts)

Trust law is governed primarily by state law, not federal law. While the basics are similar across states, the details can differ significantly. Knowing your state's rules helps you make better decisions about your trust.

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Trust Education

10 Trust Mistakes That Could Cost Your Family Thousands

Avoid these common errors that undo the protection a trust is supposed to provide.

Creating a trust is the easy part. These ten mistakes quietly undo the protection a trust is supposed to provide, starting with the one that wrecks about 40% of trusts.

Not funding the trust

~40% never fully funded

Forgetting to update after major life events

Choosing the wrong trustee

Naming minor children as direct beneficiaries

Court controls funds until age 18

Ignoring tax implications

Using a generic template without customization

Not including a no-contest clause

Failing to plan for digital assets

Not having a pour-over will

Setting it and forgetting it

Review every 3-5 years

Key Takeaways

Unfunded trusts are the #1 mistake in trust planning

Always update your trust after major life events

Choose trustees based on reliability and financial ability, not just relationship

Never name minor children as direct beneficiaries of financial accounts

Review your trust every 3-5 years

Creating a trust is a great step. But trust planning has pitfalls that trip up even well-intentioned people. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

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Trust Education

Trusts and Digital Assets: Protecting Your Online Life

Your digital life is valuable. Your estate plan should include it.

Most estate plans written before 2015 say nothing about your online life. Crypto, accounts, and cloud media all need explicit trust provisions and an access plan.

Your digital estate checklist

Include digital asset provisions in your trust
Keep an encrypted inventory of accounts and passwords
Set up Google Inactive Account Manager
Set up Apple Digital Legacy
Name a Facebook Legacy Contact
Document crypto private keys and seed phrases
Without keys, cryptocurrency is gone forever
Terms of service can override default fiduciary access

6 of 8 included

Key Takeaways

Digital assets include crypto, online accounts, social media, and digital media

Most estate plans written before 2015 do not address digital assets

RUFADAA gives trustees legal authority to access digital accounts

Cryptocurrency requires private keys -- without them, it is gone forever

Set up legacy features on Google, Apple, and Facebook now

Most estate plans written before 2015 say nothing about digital assets. That is a problem, because for many people, digital assets represent significant financial and sentimental value.

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Trust Education

Trust vs. Will: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Both are important, but they do very different things.

You probably need both, but they do very different jobs. A trust handles the heavy lifting; a will is the backup that also names a guardian.

Feature

Will

TrustRecommended

When it takes effect

Only after death

Immediately, during life and after

Avoids probate

Stays private

Incapacity protection

Covers multi-state property

Separate probate per state

One trust, all states

Speed of distribution

6 months to 2 years

2 to 8 weeks

Cost to execute

3-7% of estate

Virtually free

Names a guardian for kids

When it takes effect

WillOnly after death

TrustImmediately, during life and after

Avoids probate

Will

Trust

Stays private

Will

Trust

Incapacity protection

Will

Trust

Covers multi-state property

WillSeparate probate per state

TrustOne trust, all states

Speed of distribution

Will6 months to 2 years

Trust2 to 8 weeks

Cost to execute

Will3-7% of estate

TrustVirtually free

Names a guardian for kids

Will

Trust

Key Takeaways

A trust works during your life and after death; a will only works after death

Trusts avoid probate; wills always go through probate

Trusts are private; wills become public record

You need both: a trust for most assets and a will for guardianship and as a backup

Trust distribution takes weeks; probate takes months to years

The trust vs. will debate is one of the most common questions in estate planning. The short answer: you probably need both, but the trust does most of the heavy lifting.

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Trust Education

Special Needs Trusts: Protecting a Loved One Without Losing Their Benefits

How to provide for someone with a disability while keeping their government benefits intact.

A direct inheritance can wipe out SSI and Medicaid, which cut off at $2,000 in countable assets. A special needs trust supplements benefits instead of replacing them.

What a special needs trust can and cannot pay for

Supplemental medical care beyond Medicaid
Personal care attendants and companions
Education and training programs
Recreation, travel, and entertainment
Electronics, furniture, and a vehicle
Hobbies, pet care, and quality-of-life expenses
Food and shelter (counts as in-kind support)
Cash paid directly to the beneficiary

6 of 8 included

Key Takeaways

Inheriting even a small amount can disqualify someone from SSI and Medicaid

A special needs trust supplements government benefits without replacing them

Third-party trusts have no Medicaid payback requirement; first-party trusts do

Trust distributions should go to vendors, not directly to the beneficiary

A letter of intent helps future trustees understand the beneficiary's needs

If you have a family member with a disability, estate planning gets more complicated. A well-meaning inheritance can actually hurt the person you are trying to help. Here is why, and what to do about it.

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Trust Education

Charitable Trusts: Give to Causes You Care About While Reducing Your Tax Bill

Two types of charitable trusts offer different tax benefits depending on your goals.

Charitable trusts let you support a cause and cut your tax bill. The two types run in opposite directions: one pays you first, the other pays charity first.

Feature

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)Recommended

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)

Who gets income first

You (or your chosen person)

The charity

Who gets the remainder

Charity

Your heirs

Avoids capital gains on appreciated assets

Payout rules

5%-50%, leave 10%+ for charity

Fixed % or amount to charity for a term

Best for

Income for life plus a future gift

Passing wealth to heirs at reduced tax

Annual tax filing

Form 5227

Required (grantor or non-grantor)

Who gets income first

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)You (or your chosen person)

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)The charity

Who gets the remainder

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)Charity

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)Your heirs

Avoids capital gains on appreciated assets

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)

Payout rules

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)5%-50%, leave 10%+ for charity

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)Fixed % or amount to charity for a term

Best for

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)Income for life plus a future gift

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)Passing wealth to heirs at reduced tax

Annual tax filing

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)Form 5227

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)Required (grantor or non-grantor)

Key Takeaways

Charitable Remainder Trusts pay you income, then give the rest to charity

CRTs avoid capital gains tax on appreciated asset sales

Charitable Lead Trusts pay charity first, then transfer remaining assets to heirs

Both types offer significant tax benefits but require annual filings

CRTs must pay at least 5% and leave at least 10% for charity

Charitable trusts are a way to support the causes you believe in while getting real tax benefits during your lifetime or after death. There are two main types, and they work in opposite directions.

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Trust Education

Trust Administration After Death: A Step-by-Step Guide for Successor Trustees

What to do when you become the acting trustee after the grantor dies.

When the grantor dies, the successor trustee takes over with no court filing required. This is the nine-step roadmap from locating the document to closing the trust.

Locate the original trust
Find amendments, Schedule A, and the pour-over will
Order death certificates
Get 10-15 certified copies
Notify relevant parties
Beneficiaries within 60 days, banks, insurers, IRS for an EIN
Inventory all trust assets
Record date-of-death values for stepped-up basis
Pay debts and expenses
Wait 60-90 days before final distributions
File tax returns
Final 1040, trust 1041, and 706 if above the exemption
Distribute to beneficiaries
Follow the document exactly; get signed receipts
Prepare a final accounting
Show all income, expenses, and distributions
Terminate the trust
Keep all records for at least 7 years

Locate the original trust
Find amendments, Schedule A, and the pour-over will
Order death certificates
Get 10-15 certified copies
Notify relevant parties
Beneficiaries within 60 days, banks, insurers, IRS for an EIN
Inventory all trust assets
Record date-of-death values for stepped-up basis
Pay debts and expenses
Wait 60-90 days before final distributions
File tax returns
Final 1040, trust 1041, and 706 if above the exemption
Distribute to beneficiaries
Follow the document exactly; get signed receipts
Prepare a final accounting
Show all income, expenses, and distributions
Terminate the trust
Keep all records for at least 7 years

Key Takeaways

No court filing is required -- that is the benefit of a trust over probate

Order 10-15 certified death certificates immediately

Notify beneficiaries within 60 days in most states

Assets receive a stepped-up tax basis as of the date of death

Keep all records for at least 7 years after trust termination

When the person who created the trust (the grantor) dies, the successor trustee takes over. If you have been named as a successor trustee, this is your roadmap for what comes next. The process is more straightforward than probate, but it still requires attention to detail.

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Trust Education

Trust Planning for Married Couples: Joint Trusts, Separate Trusts, and AB Trusts

Which trust structure makes sense for your marriage and financial situation.

Couples have more options than singles. The choice between a joint trust and separate trusts comes down to your state, your wealth split, and whether either spouse has prior children.

Feature

Joint TrustRecommended

Separate Trusts

Number of documents

One

Two

Best for first marriages, shared beneficiaries

Protects prior-marriage children

Isolates one spouse from the other's creditors

Keeps separate property distinct

Natural fit in community property states

Administrative simplicity

Simple, one set of records

More tracking and cost

Number of documents

Joint TrustOne

Separate TrustsTwo

Best for first marriages, shared beneficiaries

Joint Trust

Separate Trusts

Protects prior-marriage children

Joint Trust

Separate Trusts

Isolates one spouse from the other's creditors

Joint Trust

Separate Trusts

Keeps separate property distinct

Joint Trust

Separate Trusts

Natural fit in community property states

Joint Trust

Separate Trusts

Administrative simplicity

Joint TrustSimple, one set of records

Separate TrustsMore tracking and cost

Key Takeaways

Joint trusts work best for first marriages with shared beneficiaries

Separate trusts protect assets in blended families and creditor situations

AB trusts may still save state estate taxes despite federal portability

QTIP trusts protect both the surviving spouse and children from prior marriages

Community property states and common law states require different approaches

Married couples have more options -- and more complexity -- in trust planning than single individuals. The right structure depends on your state's property laws, your combined estate value, whether either spouse has children from a previous relationship, and your goals for asset protection and tax planning.

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Trust Education

How to Update Your Trust: Amendments, Restatements, and When Each Makes Sense

Your trust should grow and change as your life does. Here is how to make updates properly.

A revocable trust should change as your life does, but the wrong update method causes problems. Use an amendment for small tweaks and a restatement once changes pile up.

Feature

AmendmentRecommended

Restatement

What it changes

Specific provisions only

The entire document

Original trust date kept

Best when

Adding a beneficiary or new trustee

After 3-4 amendments or major changes

Readability

Must read original plus every amendment

One clean document

Old terms hidden from beneficiaries

Re-titling assets required

Works on irrevocable trusts

What it changes

AmendmentSpecific provisions only

RestatementThe entire document

Original trust date kept

Amendment

Restatement

Best when

AmendmentAdding a beneficiary or new trustee

RestatementAfter 3-4 amendments or major changes

Readability

AmendmentMust read original plus every amendment

RestatementOne clean document

Old terms hidden from beneficiaries

Amendment

Restatement

Re-titling assets required

Amendment

Restatement

Works on irrevocable trusts

Amendment

Restatement

Key Takeaways

Amendments change specific provisions; restatements replace the entire document

Consider a restatement after 3-4 amendments for clarity

A restatement keeps the original trust date (important for Medicaid timelines)

Irrevocable trusts generally cannot be amended

Review your trust every 3-5 years and after any major life event

A revocable living trust is a living document -- it should change as your life changes. But making changes the wrong way can create legal problems. Here is how to update your trust correctly.

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Trust Education

Asset Protection Trusts: Shielding Your Wealth from Lawsuits and Creditors

How domestic and offshore asset protection trusts work, and whether you need one.

Asset protection trusts put wealth beyond future creditors, but you choose between two routes. Domestic trusts are cheaper; offshore trusts are stronger and far more demanding.

Weighing Your Options

Every trust structure involves tradeoffs. Understanding them is the first step to the right choice.

Domestic (DAPT)

Available in 20+ states (Nevada and South Dakota strongest)
You can be grantor and beneficiary
Lower cost to set up and maintain
Protects against future, not existing, claims
No protection from IRS liens or child support

Offshore

Cook Islands, Nevis, Belize do not honor US judgments
Strongest protection available
Costs $25,000-$75,000 to set up, $5,000+/yr to maintain
Requires IRS Forms 3520 and 3520-A
Negative perception if you end up in court

The right trust depends on your goals. Neither side is wrong — only what fits your situation.

Key Takeaways

DAPTs let you benefit from a trust while protecting assets from future creditors

Over 20 states now allow domestic asset protection trusts

You must create the trust before any creditor claim arises

Offshore trusts offer stronger protection but cost much more and have IRS reporting requirements

Asset protection works best as part of a broader strategy including insurance and entity planning

If you work in a profession with high liability exposure -- medicine, real estate development, contracting, or business ownership -- you already know the feeling. One bad outcome, one dissatisfied customer, one slip-and-fall on your property, and everything you have built over a career could be at risk.

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Trust Education

Trust Taxation: What Every Trust Creator and Trustee Needs to Understand

Trusts and taxes are connected at every level. Here is a plain-English guide to how it works.

Trust tax brackets are brutally compressed: a trust hits the top 37% rate at $15,650, while an individual does not reach it until about $609,000. Distributing income is the fix.

Income before the top 37% tax rate kicks in

dollars of income

Irrevocable trust$15,650
Individual taxpayer~$609,000

PreferredAvoid

Key Takeaways

Revocable trusts are invisible to the IRS -- you file your normal personal return

Irrevocable trusts hit the top 37% tax rate at just $15,650 of income

Distributing income to beneficiaries usually saves significant taxes

The 65-day rule lets trustees make tax-efficient distributions after year-end

State income tax on trusts varies widely -- some states have no trust income tax

Trust taxation confuses almost everyone, including many financial advisors. But the core rules are straightforward once you separate revocable trusts from irrevocable trusts.

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When You Are Ready — Your Printed Edition

Once you have reviewed everything and you are ready, just say the word and we will have your entire trust professionally printed for you. When you walk into a bank, you will have exactly what the banker needs in hand, and all of your trust documents kept safe in a rich walnut leather binder for safekeeping, along with individual banker folders for each of your companies so you can hand over precisely the right papers for each account.

Walnut leather trust binder that comes with every trust — The walnut leather trust binder

Individual banker folders for each company — A folder for each company

Ready to protect your family?

Start the 7-step wizard and create your trust in about 45 minutes.

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Simple, Transparent Pricing

Trust Packages Built for Every Situation

Professional trust formation with licensed attorney matching in your jurisdiction if needed, depending on the trust. Many trusts do not need an attorney at all -- that is why you use our software to save on annual and quarterly attorney fees.

Start with just 1/2 down on any package -- upgrade anytime

Basic Foundation

Was: $4,500 - $6,50035% OFF!

For clients with straightforward assets (1-2 LLCs, 1-2 properties, no litigation risk).

$2,925

Start with 1/2 down $1,462.50

All 8 trust types available
Transfer of 1 LLC and 1 property into the trust
Basic compliance checks (UCC lien search, title review)
1-hour consultation to finalize terms
7-step guided wizard with tooltips
Certificate of trust
Schedule A (asset inventory)
One trust amendment
Pour-over will template
PDF document downloads
Concierge Attorney Matching available as add-on
30-day money-back guarantee

Competitors often charge $5,000 - $15,000 for basic trusts. Every tier includes access to our Concierge Attorney Matching service, connecting you with a licensed attorney in your state when you need professional legal review.

Advanced Growth

Was: $7,500 - $12,00035% OFF!

For clients with 3-5 entities, multi-state properties, or moderate privacy needs.

$4,875 - $7,800

Start with 1/2 down from $2,437.50

All Basic Foundation services included
Coordination with CPA for tax-neutral transfers
Layered LLCs for enhanced privacy (e.g., Wyoming holding LLC + trust)
Custom spendthrift/anti-Bartlett clauses
2-3 hours of client consultation
Unlimited trust creation
All 8 trust types available
Trust amendments (unlimited)
Compliance calendar with reminders
Full training library (10 modules)
Reference library with citations
Concierge Attorney Matching -- licensed attorney in your jurisdiction
Priority email support
30-day money-back guarantee

Includes Concierge Attorney Matching -- we locate and connect you with a licensed attorney in your state for professional document review and execution. No more guessing if your documents are right.

Elite Enterprise

Was: $15,000 - $25,000+35% OFF!

For high-net-worth clients (6+ entities, international assets, dynasty trusts).

$12,750

Or 2 payments of $6,375

All Advanced Growth services included
Multi-jurisdictional compliance (e.g., NY trust reporting, CA LLC rules)
International asset coordination (foreign bank accounts, offshore entities)
Annual trust maintenance (amendments, IRS filings)
Priority support and encrypted communication
Concierge Attorney Matching -- priority placement with top-tier attorneys
Advanced client and case management
Custom trust provisions builder
Document versioning and audit trail
Full legal document library
Multi-user firm access
Business-to-trust conversion tool
Bulk document generation
Co-branding with your firm name

Includes priority Concierge Attorney Matching with elder law, estate planning, and special needs trust attorneys in your jurisdiction. Comparable to private wealth attorneys charging $20k - $50k.

Elite Enterprise

Your Own White-Label Firm Dashboard

Elite Enterprise comes with a fully branded firm workspace. Add unlimited clients, create unlimited trusts, build custom provisions, and manage every case from one place -- all under your own firm name.

White-label firm dashboard with client and trust management — Add clients and create unlimited trusts

Custom trust provisions builder in the firm dashboard — Build custom provisions and manage every case

No Attorney Required -- But Available If You Want One

You do not need a lawyer to do any of the paperwork. Our software walks you through every document yourself, and that is exactly why you save thousands over the traditional route. The same is true for ongoing upkeep: the platform helps you maintain and manage your trust over time without paying an attorney for every change. If you would feel more comfortable with a professional involved -- or you have a large estate or multiple entities -- we connect you with the best attorneys in your jurisdiction so you can move forward competently. You pay that attorney separately at their quoted rate.

Optional, not required

Feature Comparison

Feature	Basic Foundation	Advanced Growth	Elite Enterprise
Trust documents created	1-2	Unlimited	Unlimited
Trust types available	All 8 types	All 8 types	All 8 types
Entities covered	1-2 LLCs	3-5 entities	6+ entities
Properties transferred	1-2	Multi-state	International
CPA tax coordination	No	Yes	Yes
Layered LLC privacy	No	Yes (Wyoming holding)	Yes (multi-jurisdiction)
Custom clauses	No	Spendthrift/anti-Bartlett	Full custom
Consultation hours	1 hour	2-3 hours	Unlimited
Trust amendments	1 included	Unlimited	Unlimited + Annual
Compliance checks	Basic (UCC, title)	Multi-state filings	Multi-jurisdictional
IRS filings	No	No	Annual maintenance
International assets	No	No	Full coordination
Encrypted communication	No	No	Yes
Client management	No	Basic	Advanced
Support level	Email	Priority email	Priority + encrypted
Licensed attorney matching	Add-on available	Included	Priority placement

ANSWERS & RESOURCES

101 Questions About Trusts, Answered

Everything you need to know about trusts, trust types, costs, taxes, and more. Written in plain English at a reading level anyone can understand.

100 total questions across 6 categories

All answers written at a 7th-grade reading level for clarity

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Your Family Deserves the Protection a Trust Provides

Every day without a trust is another day your family is exposed to probate costs, court delays, and public disclosure. Our wizard makes it simple to get protected right now.

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Smith Family Living Trust

Eight Trust Types to Fit Your Situation

Revocable Living Trust

Best For

Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT)

Best For

Dynasty Trust (Generational Trust)

Best For

Asset Protection Trust (Domestic or Offshore)

Best For

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)

Best For

Family Limited Partnership with Trust

Best For

508(c)(1)(A) Trust

Best For

501(c)(3) Charitable Organization Trust

Best For

Have a Specific Situation?

Ready to protect your family?

How the 7-Step Wizard Works

Choose Your Trust Type

Choose Your Trust Type

Enter Grantor Information

Enter Grantor Information

Select Your Trustee

Select Your Trustee

Add Your Beneficiaries

Add Your Beneficiaries

List Your Assets

List Your Assets

Set Trust Terms

Set Trust Terms

Review and Generate

Review and Generate

See the Trust Creation Wizard in Action

Trust vs. Will: Why a Trust Wins

Probate required

Privacy

Time to distribute assets

Cost after death

Incapacity protection

Multi-state property

Effective immediately

Difficulty to contest

Control over distributions

Ongoing management

What Exactly Is a Trust, and Why Does Your Family Need One?

Key Takeaways

The Real Cost of Not Having a Trust: What Probate Does to Your Family

Probate vs. Trust on a $550,000 estate

Key Takeaways

Revocable Living Trusts: The Foundation of a Modern Estate Plan

What a revocable living trust does (and does not) do

Key Takeaways

Irrevocable Trusts: When You Need Real Asset Protection

What you give up

What you gain

Key Takeaways

What Every Trustee Needs to Know: Duties, Powers, and Liabilities

The six core fiduciary duties of a trustee

Key Takeaways

Estate Planning Basics: Building a Complete Plan Around Your Trust

Key Takeaways

How to Fund Your Trust: The Step Most People Skip (And Why It Matters)

Key Takeaways

Trust Laws by State: What You Need to Know Where You Live

State-Specific Legal Distinctions

Key Takeaways

10 Trust Mistakes That Could Cost Your Family Thousands

Key Takeaways

Trusts and Digital Assets: Protecting Your Online Life

Your digital estate checklist

Key Takeaways

Trust vs. Will: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Key Takeaways

Special Needs Trusts: Protecting a Loved One Without Losing Their Benefits

What a special needs trust can and cannot pay for

Key Takeaways

Create Your
Living Trust
in 7 Simple Steps