---
title: What is the difference between a living trust and a will?
description: "\"Learn the key differences between a living trust and a will with Legal Faqs. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the benefits and drawbacks of each option to help you make a decision in planning your estate.\""
image: https://www.legalfaq.ai/hubfs/LegalFAQ/estate-planning-legal-FAQs.jpg
---

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 May 16, 2023

# What is the difference between a living trust and a will?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

As a lawyer, I can provide legal advice on the difference between a living trust and a will. A living trust is a legal document that allows a person to transfer their assets into the trust while they are still alive. The assets in the trust are then managed by a trustee designated by the trust creator. Upon the person's death, the assets in the trust are distributed to the beneficiaries designated in the trust without the need for probate court proceedings.

A will, on the other hand, is a legal document that specifies how a person's assets will be distributed after their death. A will can also designate a guardian for any minor children, specify funeral arrangements, and designate an executor to carry out the wishes of the deceased. However, upon the person's death, the will must go through the probate court process before assets can be distributed to the beneficiaries.

In summary, a living trust allows assets to be transferred to the trust while the person is alive and avoids the probate process upon the person's death, while a will specifies how assets will be distributed after the person's death, but requires probate court proceedings.

It is important to note that creating a living trust can be more expensive and complicated than creating a will, but may provide certain benefits such as privacy and more control over how assets are distributed. Additionally, some assets such as life insurance policies and retirement accounts may not be able to be transferred to a trust and may require a beneficiary designation.

It is always recommended to consult with a licensed attorney to determine the best option for one's individual circumstances and to ensure that all legal requirements are met.

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