What is the difference between probate and trust administration?

Probate is a court process. Trust administration is usually a private process handled by the trustee under the terms of the trust.

Probate may require court filings, creditor notices, inventories, orders, and final distribution approval. Trust administration still has legal duties, but it often avoids ongoing court involvement if the trust was properly set up and funded.

Neither process is “push button, receive inheritance.” But trust administration is often more private and efficient.

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