Strengths and Trade-Offs of a Revocable Trust

A Revocable Trust produces a very real benefit for the protection of your property and assets during your life. Those benefits also continue after your death. When executed properly, it provides flexibility for handling one's assets based on your wishes. It provides many options to fit many varied circumstances which need to be addressed. It is not an understatement to say we live in a very mobile society. A Revocable Trust is portable and easy to take from jurisdiction to
jurisdiction. Below are some strengths and trade-­offs when considering a Revocable Trust as an estate planning tool.

Strength:

You keep control of your property until your death

Minimizes delays in the transfer of property

Allows distribution of your property to be customized

Allows for a smooth transition if you become incapacitated

Provides privacy

Avoids probate

Centralizes and simplifies the management of your affairs

Trade-offs:

Does not help achieve Medicaid eligibility

Does not avoid estate taxes or protect property from creditors

Which Revocable Trust is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances. This requires a thorough approach during preparation of a Revocable Trust to make sure that all aspects necessary to carry out your wishes have been addressed.