Will or Trust? Understand Which One Protects Your Future Better
Choosing between a will and a trust depends on your goals: a will is ideal for simple distributions while a trust offers greater privacy, faster administration, and more control over how and when assets are passed on. Get clear guidance tailored to your situation.
Wills vs. Trusts at a Glance
A quick comparison to help you understand how each option works:
Wills
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Direct how only some of your assets are distributed after your passing
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Requires a court-guided probate process
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Settles any outstanding debts or claims against the estate
When a Will Makes Sense
A will is often the right choice if:
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You have a simple estate and a simple distribution plan
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You anticipate your estate may have significant debt or creditors
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You’re looking for a time-tested, conclusive process for settling your estate
Trusts
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Useful for managing your assets both during your lifetime and after
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Designed to allow you to avoid the probate process
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Offers both flexibility and control over the assets and distribution
When a Trust Makes Sense
​A trust may be the better tool if:
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You want to avoid the time and expense of probate
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You’d like to keep your assets and distribution plan private
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You have a blended family or complex distribution plan
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You’d like increased control over how your assets are managed for your heirs
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