When a Trust Makes Sense—and When It Doesn’t

Trusts are often misunderstood.

Some families assume a trust is automatically better than a will. Others avoid trusts altogether, believing they are only for the wealthy or overly complicated.

The truth is simpler—and more practical: a trust is a tool, not a requirement. Whether it makes sense depends on goals, risks, and family circumstances.

What a Trust Is Designed to Do

A trust can provide structure before and after death. Depending on how it is set up, a trust may:

• Avoid probate

• Provide continuity during incapacity

• Control how and when assets are distributed

• Reduce administrative delays

For some families, these benefits are essential. For others, they may be unnecessary.

When a Trust Often Makes Sense

A trust is commonly appropriate when:

• Avoiding probate is a priority

• There are concerns about incapacity

• Assets need ongoing management

• Privacy matters

• Family dynamics are complex

In these situations, a trust can provide clarity and continuity that a will alone cannot.

When a Trust May Not Be Necessary

A trust is not always the right solution.

For families with:

• Simple asset structures

• Clear beneficiary designations

• Minimal risk of incapacity issues

A well-coordinated plan using other tools may be sufficient. More structure is not always better—it must be appropriate.

The Risk of Choosing Based on Cost or Assumptions

One of the biggest mistakes families make is choosing between a will and a trust based on:

• Upfront cost

• What a friend or relative used

• Online advice without context

These decisions should be guided by risk exposure, not convenience.

Trusts Are Not “Set It and Forget It”

Even when a trust is the right tool, it must be:

• Properly funded

• Coordinated with other documents

• Reviewed as life changes

An unfunded or outdated trust can create as many problems as having no plan at all.

A Better Question to Ask

Instead of asking:“Should I have a will or a trust?”

A better question is:“What risks am I trying to protect my family from?”

That answer determines the right structure.

Closing Perspective

Trusts are powerful when used intentionally—and unnecessary when used blindly.

The goal of estate planning is not complexity. It is clarity.