When property passes through probate, you incur executor’s fees, attorney’s fees and court costs, all of which can be quite substantial depending on the size of your estate. These are fees generally set by state law and are usually based entirely on the size of the estate being probated rather than on the amount of time and work involved. There may also be additional extraordinary expenses of probate (i.e., tax returns, life insurance, etc.).

All of these fees and expenses can significantly reduce the estate to be distributed to your beneficiaries.

With a living trust these fees and costs can be greatly reduced. Your assets are transferred immediately to your designated beneficiaries outside the court system and in accordance with the directions specified by you in the trust agreement. Costs of administration of a living trust are minimal and are generally based on the actual time and/or services required.