Trusts
Simplify what happens next
A trust based plan can help your family avoid probate and keep things more organized, private, and efficient.
Summary: A revocable trust holds your assets during your lifetime and passes them to your family without probate. For Massachusetts homeowners, it is usually the cleaner path.
What a trust actually does
A trust allows your assets to pass to your beneficiaries without going through probate.
This can:
- Reduce delays
- Lower overall costs
- Keep matters private
- Make things easier for your family
Avoid probate entirely
A will still goes through probate.
A trust allows your family to skip that process entirely.
That means fewer delays, fewer court steps, and a smoother transition for your family.
When a trust is worth considering
If you own a home, have meaningful assets, or want to simplify things for your family, a trust is often worth considering.
Many people choose a trust to avoid probate and keep everything more streamlined.
The whole plan
Trusts works well with
Most estate plans pair these together so your wishes are covered no matter what comes up.
Health Care Proxy
A health care proxy allows someone you choose to make medical decisions if you are unable to.
Learn morePower of Attorney
A power of attorney allows someone you trust to manage financial and legal matters on your behalf.
Learn moreMedicaid Planning
Medicaid planning helps protect your assets while preparing for potential future care needs.
Learn more
How we work
You will work directly with your attorney.
You will work directly with Ralph to create a plan that reflects your situation. He will walk you through each decision and make sure everything is clear and complete.
FAQ
Questions we hear about trusts.
- Yes. A pour-over will catches any asset that did not make it into the trust, like a checking account you forgot to retitle, and routes it in. It is a safety net, not a replacement.
- A revocable trust can be amended or revoked at any time while you are alive and competent. That flexibility is why most estate plans use revocable trusts.
- A trust by itself does not avoid the tax, but a well-drafted trust for a married couple can use both spouses exemptions through credit-shelter or QTIP structures, which saves Massachusetts estate tax for families above the threshold.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Can I change or revoke the trust later?
Does a trust help with the Massachusetts estate tax?
Start with a clear plan
A short conversation can help you understand what you need and what you do not.