Trust
Context
Trusts are a core estate-planning tool. A revocable living trust lets the grantor stay in control while healthy, name a successor trustee to step in during incapacity, and transfer assets to beneficiaries after death — typically avoiding probate for the assets it holds. Irrevocable trusts give up that flexibility in exchange for other purposes, such as tax planning or asset protection, and generally cannot be changed once created. Trust law is state-specific, and a trust must actually be funded — assets retitled into it — to work as intended.
Key Points
- Three roles: grantor creates it, trustee manages it, beneficiaries benefit from it. One person can fill more than one role.
- Revocable vs. irrevocable is the most important distinction — it determines whether the arrangement can be changed.
- Funding matters. A trust only controls assets that have actually been transferred into it.
- State law governs. Requirements for creating and administering trusts differ by state.
Explore Trust Resources
Continue learning with our plain-language guides, or browse related legal topics for seniors and their families.
Explore Trust ResourcesLegalHelpForSenior.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need a will if I have a living trust?
Does a trust avoid all taxes?
How can someone find legal help for an elderly parent?
Sources & Further Reading
These are official or established sources you can use to verify the information above. External links open in a new tab.
The Florida Bar
Estate Planning — Consumer Information
Consumer resources on wills, trusts, and estate planning under Florida law.
External links do not imply endorsement.
About this page
- Updated
Sources
- Estate Planning — Consumer Information — The Florida Bar
“Accessed” means the date the source was consulted; it is not the publication date of this page.
Published: September 26, 2026
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LegalHelpForSenior.com provides general informational content and is not a law firm. Information on this website should not be considered legal advice. Laws and procedures vary by state. For advice about a specific situation, consider consulting a qualified attorney licensed in the applicable jurisdiction. Read our full legal disclaimer.