By Catherine Hartwell · October 30, 2026
A will says who inherits, but it has to go through probate court, which takes months and becomes a public record.
A revocable trust holds your property while you are alive, and your chosen successor trustee distributes it after your death, usually without probate.
Families who own a home, own property in more than one state or value privacy often choose a trust. A will-based plan can make sense for simpler estates.
Either way, you still need powers of attorney and a health care directive. This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation.
