A will outlines how your assets are distributed after death, while a trust allows you to manage and protect those assets during your lifetime and beyond. A trust can also help minimize taxes, avoid probate, and provide smoother transfers to your loved ones.

It truly depends on your situation and the level of protection you’re looking for. Some people only need a basic will and power of attorney. Others, depending on the size and complexity of their estate, choose to create trusts that manage and protect their assets during life and even after death.

Without a will, the government decides who gets your assets, not you. That process can be slow, expensive, and may leave your family with less than you intended. Without a power of attorney, no one has legal authority to manage your finances or make medical decisions if you become unable to. In that case, your loved ones may have to go through the courts just to step in, adding stress, cost, and delay at the worst possible time.

Yes. One of the main benefits of a trust is that it can transfer property outside of probate, saving your family time, money, and hassle. In some cases, it can also reduce or defer taxes. To do this properly, your property usually needs to be fully paid off and structured into the trust the right way.