Living Trust
Give your family clarity and peace of mind.
Make sure your assets are enjoyed by your loved ones - not drained by court and legal costs.
What is a living trust?
Living trust definition: A living trust is a legal document that states who you want to manage and distribute your property if you're unable to do so, and who receives it when you pass away. Once signed, you transfer ownership of your assets into the trust and you remain in complete control of your property. The living trust property can be managed and distributed without going through the probate court.
Advantages of a living trust
It's a smart way to avoid probate.
Keep more money in the family by avoiding potentially lengthy and expensive court proceedings.
Your personal and financial matters remain private.
The public doesn't get to see what you owned, who you owed, and who'll inherit your assets.
Your affairs get handled if you're incapacitated.
Avoid going to court by appointing a trustee to take charge of your finances according to your instructions.
A living trust doesn't change your financial affairs
A living trust lets you do whatever you want with your money - buy and sell assets, open bank accounts and make investments just like you do now.
You can amend or change the trust any time, or even revoke it and pull your assets out. It remains on the shelf, ready to act if something happens to you or your spouse.
Why living trusts are so popular
You want to make sure your property goes to the right people, at the right time and at the least cost. A living trust can do all this. Living trusts helps you manage and distribute your property efficiently without court interference.
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Over 2.2 million estate planning products created
Basic
$249
Personalized Living Trust
Specific to your state. Our product is researched and maintained by attorneys.
Digital Download
Your completed Living Trust is available from your LegalZoom account.
FREE revisions for 30 days
We'll create a new Living Trust up to 30 days after purchase.
We make sure your work is consistent and complete.
Comprehensive
$269
Everything from Basic plus:
Rush processing
Download your Living Trust in 2 business days.
30-day trial of Attorney Advice1
Membership includes 30-minute independent attorney consults on your estate plan or other new legal matters.
Estate Plan Bundle
$299
You save $144 (32% off reg. price $443)
Everything from Basic plus these additional services:
Financial Power of Attorney
($35 value)
Appoint financial and legal decision-makers.
Living Will
($39 value)
State end-of-life wishes and includes a Healthcare Power of Attorney.
1 year of Attorney Advice2 and FREE revisions
($119.88 value)
Membership includes 30-minute independent attorney consults on your estate plan or other new legal matters.
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What most people ask
What is a living trust?
It's a legal document that states who you want to manage and distribute your property if you're unable to do so, and who receives it when you pass away. Once signed, you transfer ownership of your assets into the trust and you remain in complete control of your property. The trust property can be managed and distributed without going through the probate court.
Can I transfer property into and out of the trust while I'm alive?
Yes. If you have an individual trust, you can transfer property whenever you want. If you have a shared trust, you'll need your co-trustee's consent if you own the property together.
Do I still need a will if I have a living trust?
Yes, because you may not have transferred your property into your trust before you pass away. A LegalZoom Living Trust includes a pour over will. It transfers property still in your name alone when you pass away to the trust to be distributed to your beneficiaries. It also lets you name guardians for your minor children.
Aren't living trusts just for the wealthy?
Not at all. People of all income levels can set one up to manage their finances in case they become disabled, or to provide for loved ones without going through probate court, which may be required of relatively modest estates.
Will it remain legal if I move to another state?
Yes. A living trust is valid in all 50 states, no matter where it's created and signed. But if you buy property in your new state, you'want to transfer it into your trust.
Do I need a lawyer to prepare my living trust?
It's hard to say, as every person has specific needs. Our customers are often surprised at how easy it is to set up their living trust on their own. If your estate is large or complicated, or you have a child with special needs, you may want to ask an attorney for help.
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