Do I need a trust, or is a will enough?

It depends on what you own, where you own it, who you want to leave it to, and how much simplicity or structure you want after death.

A will can be enough in some situations. The main thing to understand is that a will usually works through probate. Probate is the court process for transferring assets after death.

A revocable living trust is often used to help avoid probate, make administration easier, provide privacy, and give structure for beneficiaries. For many families, a trust is not about being fancy. It is about making things easier for the people you love.

The right answer depends on your assets, family, goals, and state law.

*Reviewed by Estate Planning Attorney Casey Connealy, Partner at Gaughan & Connealy Estate Planning Attorneys on June 23, 2026.