How It Differs From a Will
A will is a set of instructions to a probate judge. A revocable living trust works outside the court system entirely. Assets in a trust bypass probate, stay private, and reach beneficiaries faster. Often in weeks rather than months or years.
Key Features of a Revocable Living Trust
- Full control: You stay in charge of all trust assets during your lifetime
- Revocable: You can amend, change, or revoke the trust at any time
- Probate avoidance: Assets in the trust bypass probate court
- Privacy: Unlike a will, a trust is not filed with any court and stays private
- Incapacity protection: If you become incapacitated, your successor trustee manages your affairs. No conservatorship is needed.
What a Revocable Trust Does Not Do
A revocable trust does not protect your assets from your own creditors. Because you keep control, courts treat trust assets as yours. For creditor protection, an irrevocable trust or other strategies may be needed. For a side-by-side look at how the two trust types compare on control, taxes, ALTCS eligibility, and the modification paths for each, see our complete guide to revocable vs. irrevocable trusts in Arizona.
Trusts vs. Wills: Full Guide
See how a revocable living trust compares to a will in Arizona. Our guide covers probate costs, privacy, and incapacity protection: Trusts vs. Wills in Arizona: Key Differences Compared.