Protecting your assets is one of the most important aspects of financial management and leaving a lasting legacy for your loved ones. There are two main tools that are used in estate planning to accomplish this goal: trusts and wills. Both of these legal documents direct your property distribution and protect your assets; however, they are used for different needs and functions.
It’s important to understand the differences between wills and trusts to plan your estate and secure the assets you will leave behind. This article will explain the differences between these two legal tools to help you decide on your estate.
Wills:
A will is a legal document that directs your last wishes regarding property distribution. It can also appoint an executor to take care of your estate according to your wishes after you die. It can pass your property to your loved ones and grant specific possessions to individuals of your choosing. A will must be properly written and executed to be valid, or it could be challenged in court. This is why it is important to speak with an attorney before drafting a will.
A will must be probated to have effect. Probate is a court-supervised procedure that authenticates the will and administers the estate. The probate process can be costly and time-consuming, even if the estate is debt-free. Probate can slow down the asset distribution process and increase legal fees your heirs may have to pay.
Flexibility: A will can be a great legal tool for estates that do not have complex arrangements or smaller estates. Wills are often straightforward and flexible enough for many people.
Cost: Wills are a cost-effective way to ensure that your last wishes are honored and that your loved ones receive your property.
Trusts:
A trust is a legal arrangement that places a trustee in a position to manage assets according to the terms of the trust. This arrangement is made on behalf of the beneficiaries. Unlike wills, trusts do not go through probate. It’s important to note that there are different types of trusts, such as revocable and irrevocable, each with their own pros and cons.
Revocable Trusts: This type of trust allows you to retain control over your assets while you are living. You can also revise the assets as you wish. Probate is bypassed, and your assets will be transferred to the beneficiaries you have named in your trust.
Irrevocable Trusts: An irrevocable trust differs from a revocable trust, removes assets from your estate, and places them in trust. This type of trust is difficult to alter or cancel once established. However, an irrevocable trust has the ability to provide strong protection against lawsuits and creditors. It may also reduce your estate’s taxes due to the fact that you are essentially surrendering direct control over your assets while you are living. Many people choose to use an irrevocable trust to add an extra layer of protection to their estate.
How to Choose
Choosing between trusts and wills is a big decision. The outcome depends on your goals and circumstances. Wills and trusts serve different purposes. Wills are considered more accessible, cheaper, and simpler, but they must go through probate to have effect. Wills are also not private and will be part of the public record during the probate process. However, wills are still valuable legal documents for those who wish to state their wishes for property distribution and name an executor.
Trusts often provide more control, protection, and privacy. They are especially helpful for large estates that require asset management. A trust is a great way to provide for a loved one without giving them access to their entire inheritance at the same time.
Consulting with an attorney is the best way to fully understand your options when choosing between wills and trusts for your estate plan. An estate planning attorney will listen to your concerns and help you develop an individualized approach to securing your estate. An attorney will take into account each of your assets and goals and help you execute the best possible estate plan to provide for your loved ones.
Contact an Attorney
Progeny Law Firm assists clients with estate planning in Baton Rouge, LA. Call (225) 465-1090 or contact us online for a free consultation. Sign up for our free educational seminars.
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