---
title: What is the difference between a trust and a will?
description: Learn about the key differences between a trust and a will with Legal Faqs. Find out how each one works and which one may be the best option for your estate planning needs. Get expert guidance for protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are followed.
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---

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 March 24, 2023

# What is the difference between a 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 explain the difference between a trust and a will. A trust is a legal agreement in which the creator appoints a trustee to manage and distribute their assets to designated beneficiaries. The trust can take effect during the creator's lifetime, in which case it is known as a living trust, or it can be created to take effect after their death, in which case it is known as a testamentary trust. A trust can be used to avoid probate, minimize estate taxes, provide for the long-term care of a beneficiary, or protect assets from creditors.

On the other hand, a will is a legal document that sets out a person's wishes for the distribution of their assets after their death. The will appoints an executor to manage the estate and distribute assets according to the deceased's wishes. A will only takes effect after the person's death and must go through probate.

One key difference between a trust and a will is that a trust can take effect during the creator's lifetime, while a will only takes effect after their death. Also, a trust can provide greater flexibility in managing and distributing assets, while a will follows a predetermined set of instructions.

However, one potential limitation of a trust is that it may require ongoing management fees and can be more expensive to set up and maintain than a will. Additionally, not all assets can be placed in a trust, and some assets may still need to go through probate.

It is important to consult with a lawyer to determine whether a trust or a will is appropriate for your particular situation and to ensure that your estate planning documents are properly drafted and executed in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

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