Answers to common questions about your estate plan, account, documents, and more.
Account and login
I'm having trouble logging in
If you're having trouble logging in, a few common causes include browser settings, VPN configurations, or network restrictions. Try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, switching to a different browser, or disconnecting from any VPN or firewall. If you're accessing the site from outside the United States, that may also cause issues, as our services are currently available only within the 50 U.S. states.
If your account was temporarily locked due to multiple login attempts, wait 15 minutes before trying again. Clearing your cache and cookies beforehand may also help.
How do I reset my password?
You can request a password reset at app.trustandwill.com/reset-password.
How do I log in?
You can log in to your account at app.trustandwill.com/login.
How do I change my email address?
To update your email address, log in and click "My Account" in the top-right corner. Select "Profile & settings," find the Email field in the Personal info section, click "Change," enter your new email address and current password, and click "Save."
How do I change my home address?
To update your home address, navigate to the "Estate Plan" tab from the left-hand menu, click "Designation Summary" at the top, scroll down to the "Health Care" section, and click "Edit." Click "Save & Continue" until you reach the home address question. Clear the current entry and type your new address. Select the correct address from the drop-down suggestions and save.
Can my spouse have a separate login?
Currently, only one email address can be used per account. For couples' accounts, both spouses share the same login credentials to access the plan.
I see a 403 "Access Denied" error
Our website and services are currently available only to individuals located within the United States. A 403 error usually appears when someone is visiting from outside the U.S. or using a VPN set to a location outside the country. If you're temporarily traveling abroad, connecting through a VPN server based in the United States may resolve the issue.
U.S. citizenship is not required to create an estate plan with Trust & Will, but you do need to reside in a U.S. state to use our services.
How do I delete my account?
To request account deletion, contact our support team. For security purposes, we'll need to verify your identity with the following: the last 4 digits of your credit card or the name of a person listed in your estate plan, along with the home address or phone number on your account. Please also confirm that you understand your account will be permanently deleted. All deletion requests are processed within 35 days. For more details, visit our security page.
How do I update my payment method?
Log in, click "My Account" near the top right, then "Profile & settings." Scroll to the bottom of the page, click "Membership status," then click "Change" next to your payment method to update your information.
Getting started and pricing
How does Trust & Will work?
You create an account and answer a series of questions, one at a time, similar to filling out a questionnaire. Our software takes your information and decisions and generates fully customized, state-specific estate planning documents. You can save and edit your plan at any time. If you've ever used TurboTax, the experience is similar.
How much does it cost?
We offer two estate planning products:
- Will-based estate plan: $199 for individuals or $299 for couples
- Trust-based estate plan: $499 for individuals or $599 for couples
You can compare plans and get started at trustandwill.com/compare.
What documents are included in a will-based plan?
- Last will and testament
- Advance health care directive (includes a living will and medical power of attorney)
- HIPAA authorization
- Financial power of attorney
What documents are included in a trust-based plan?
- Revocable living trust
- Pour-over will
- Advance health care directive (includes a living will and medical power of attorney)
- HIPAA authorization
- Financial power of attorney
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We offer a payment plan through Klarna at checkout. You pay one-fourth of the total cost upfront, and the remaining balance is divided into three equal payments scheduled two weeks apart. Visit the Klarna FAQ for more information about the payment plan.
Note: Klarna uses their own terms and conditions to determine eligibility for interest-free plans. If you're only seeing interest-bearing options, that's based on Klarna's policies, not ours.
How do I apply a promo code?
On the checkout screen, scroll down to "Payment Method." Below your subtotal, look for "Have a promo code?" Click the small arrow to expand the field and enter your code. We recommend copying and pasting the code to ensure accuracy.
Do you have a referral program?
Yes! You can share a referral code to give friends and family 10% off. Log in, click "My Profile & Settings," then select "Refer a Friend" to find your referral link.
Do you offer military or first responder discounts?
We offer a 20% discount for active military, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders through GovX. You can access this at govx.com.
Do you have an affiliate program?
Yes! Our affiliate program runs through Impact. You can sign up at this link.
Is Trust & Will a legitimate company?
Yes. We are registered with the BBB with an A+ rating. You can view our profile at bbb.org. You can also read real customer reviews on Trustpilot.
Are your documents legal?
Our documents were created by attorneys and are state-specific. The documents you receive will be highly similar to those an attorney would prepare for you. Our legal team regularly monitors state law changes and keeps document templates up to date.
Are you a law firm?
No. Trust & Will is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. As you provide information and answers, your responses are generated into document templates prepared by lawyers to create customized documents for you. For legal questions specific to your situation, we recommend consulting a local estate planning attorney.
How does Trust & Will compare to working with an attorney?
An estate planning attorney would create a plan with many of the same documents we offer, sometimes with more customization depending on your situation. We've built software that combines the knowledge of attorneys and legal advisors with great technology, making it easier to create your estate plan from the comfort of your home at a fraction of the cost. We also offer an Attorney Support add-on for discussing your documents with a licensed attorney in your state.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to prepare your estate plan through Trust & Will, but you do need to reside in a U.S. state. If you have assets in other countries, there may be additional complexities with estate administration.
Which state should I choose for my plan?
Our products are designed to work based on your state of residence. Choose the state where you currently live. Our products are not designed for someone to select a particular jurisdiction solely because of its trust laws.
Do you offer services in U.S. territories?
Our service is currently available for the 50 U.S. states only. Our documents are designed to comply with the laws of those 50 states and don't include specific provisions for U.S. territories.
Do you offer services in Canada?
We're currently only available in the U.S. For Canadian residents, our friends at Willful offer a similar service. You can receive 10% off at Willful by entering TRUSTANDWILL in the promo code field at checkout.
What would happen if Trust & Will went out of business?
Trust & Will is an established company in a strong financial position. In the unlikely event that we ceased operations, we would work to provide transition options for our members, such as the opportunity to download all saved data or transfer data to a new provider.
What is "domicile"?
"Domicile" is a legal term relating to where you permanently live. There's no single test to determine your domicile. Factors typically considered include where you spend most of your time, where you're registered to vote, where your driver's license is issued, where you consider home, where you intend to reside after travel or employment, where you maintain social and civic ties, and where your primary financial accounts are maintained.
Will-based estate plans
What is a will?
A will is a fundamental piece of any estate plan. It lets you designate guardians for your children and pets, specify where your assets go, and state your preferences for final arrangements after death.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
Wills and trusts both control where your assets go, but they work differently. A will is simpler: it lets you name guardians, designate asset distribution, and specify final arrangements. However, a will must go through probate after death and offers more limited control over how and when assets are distributed.
A trust gives you greater control over when and how assets are distributed. It takes a bit more effort to set up (you need to transfer assets into the trust), but assets held in the trust can typically avoid probate entirely, saving time and money and keeping information private.
Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/difference-between-trust-and-will.
What happens when someone dies with a will? (Probate)
Probate is the court-supervised process that happens after someone passes away. The will is filed with the local court, a judge confirms its validity, and an executor is officially appointed to manage the estate. The executor gathers assets, pays any debts and taxes, and distributes remaining assets according to the will. Having a will is important, but it does not avoid probate. A will tells the court how you want your assets handled.
What happens if someone dies without a will?
Each state has its own laws about what happens if you die without a will (called "intestate succession"). Generally, these laws distribute assets to spouses, children, parents, and siblings. Exactly who gets what depends on your state and family structure.
Do you offer joint wills?
We do not offer joint wills. They've fallen out of use because of several downsides with no real benefit for most people. Joint wills typically become irrevocable after the first death, meaning the surviving spouse cannot adapt to changing circumstances. Individual wills accomplish everything a joint will does without these limitations.
Can I have separate beneficiaries in a couple's will?
Yes. Go to your homepage, select "Edit designations," scroll to the Distributions section, and click Edit. Instead of selecting "Everything to my Surviving Spouse," choose "Other." This lets you select different primary and backup beneficiaries for each spouse.
Are the wills in a couple's plan separate documents?
Yes. Your will and your spouse's will are separate documents. Each will dictates what happens when that individual passes. It's not required that both spouses create a will, though it is recommended.
Can I update an existing will from another provider?
Yes. Our will product is designed to replace any existing wills. Creating a new will revokes any previous wills, making only the new one valid.
Do I need to update my will if I move states?
If you move states, update your current state in your account, then reprint and re-sign the updated documents.
How do I switch between an individual and couple's will?
Go to your homepage, select "Edit designations," click "Edit" on the Basics section, then save and continue through the questions until you reach the option to choose a will for yourself or to add a spouse.
Can I upgrade from a will to a trust?
Yes. Log in and click "My Account" at the top right, then "Profile & Settings." Scroll down to the "Add-ons" section where you'll see the option to add a trust.
Do I need to list all my assets in a will?
Your will covers everything in your probate estate, so it isn't necessary to list every asset. Assets only appear in the will if you leave them as a specific gift. You can still add assets to your online estate inventory to generate insights and help your executor know what you had.
What is a testamentary trust?
When you add age-based conditions for beneficiaries in your will, it adds a testamentary trust provision. After you pass, a testamentary trust is created according to your will's instructions, outlining when assets will be distributed. Assets are held in trust and subject to a HEMS (Health, Education, Maintenance, and Support) standard, meaning income may be distributed and beneficiaries can access funds for those needs.
What is a credit shelter tax provision?
The credit shelter tax provision is designed to help married couples make the most of available estate tax exemptions. It allows couples to take advantage of certain tax benefits when one spouse passes away. If you're not married, this provision doesn't affect your plan and requires no action.
Can I leave assets to a minor in my will?
Yes. In most situations, a guardian will have limited access to funds left to a child, intended to be provided once they turn 18. If a guardian needs to use those funds for the child's care, they may need to request approval from the probate court. Guardians are generally expected to bear the expenses of raising the child, and when a court appoints a guardian, they are typically entitled to some compensation.
How is an executor paid?
State law determines how much an executor will be paid, and this varies from state to state. The executor does have the option of not accepting payment for serving in the role.
Do you support co-executors?
We do not currently support co-executors. Having co-executors can create legal complications and may make distributing your estate more complex or time-consuming. Learn more about executors at trustandwill.com/learn/what-is-an-executor.
What is the difference between an executor and a digital executor?
An executor (also called a personal representative) is the person you formally appoint to handle all the legal and financial wishes in your estate plan, including paying off debts, managing assets, and distributing to beneficiaries. A digital executor is the person you entrust to handle your digital assets and online accounts.
What are the next steps after completing my will online?
Download or ship your documents from the "Estate Plan" tab. Take them to a notary to sign alongside two witnesses. Most banks and UPS stores offer notary services. Witnesses can be anyone who isn't related to you or mentioned in your documents.
If you need help finding a notary and witnesses, we've partnered with Mobile Notary Zone, which allows you to meet your notary and witnesses at your home or another location.
Once signed, keep the documents somewhere safe and let the people named in your plan know you have one and where it is. There's no requirement to file your documents or send them back to us.
Trust-based estate plans
What is a trust?
The type of trust we offer is a revocable living trust, the most common type. It's a way to hold property and decide where it goes after your death. Every trust has three roles: the settlor (who creates the trust), the trustee (who manages it), and the beneficiary (who can receive assets). After you create the trust, you fill all three roles. You retain total control over the trust and all assets and specify what happens when you pass, including who takes over as trustee and who becomes the beneficiary.
A major benefit is that assets in the trust typically do not have to go through probate, saving time and money and keeping information private.
What is a pour-over will?
A pour-over will is a type of will designed to work with your trust. It says that anything you own outside of your trust that is subject to your will gets paid into your trust at death. It serves as a backup to make sure everything goes under your trust.
Why does a trust plan include both a will and a trust?
The trust handles distribution of all assets. The will lets you designate guardians for kids and pets, transfers any remaining assets into the trust at death, and lets you specify preferences for final arrangements. They work together as complementary documents.
What happens if I don't fund my trust?
If you don't formally transfer assets into your trust while you're living, those assets fall under your pour-over will, which does not avoid probate. Assets in a pour-over will must go through probate before they can be transferred to the trust. Once in the trust, a level of confidentiality is established. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/pour-over-will.
What is the difference between a joint trust and separate trusts?
Separate trusts can be beneficial for couples who own separate property or have a prenuptial agreement. The downside is they're usually more complex and can be more expensive to administer. Joint trusts tend to provide more flexibility, with less work upon the passing of the first spouse and no need to retitle shared property.
In community property states, we design trusts as joint trusts. In separate property states, we design them as separate trusts. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/joint-trust-vs-separate-trust.
What is a community property state?
In community property states, spouses generally share ownership of property acquired during the marriage. Our trusts are designed as joint trusts in these states, providing significant tax and legal benefits that closely match how the laws are structured. We do not offer the option for a married person to create a separate trust in a community property state.
What is a separate property state?
In separate property states, each spouse has a legally distinct interest in their property. Our trusts are designed as separate trusts in these states. You can create trusts that are mirror images of each other and name each other as successor trustees.
How do I switch between a joint and separate trust?
Go to your homepage, select "Edit designations," click "Edit" on the Basics section, and save through the questions until you reach the trust type selection.
What happens to a joint trust after one spouse passes?
Both spouses are co-primary trustees who can edit or update the joint trust while living. After the first death, assets pass to the surviving spouse in the survivor's trust. The surviving spouse has full power to revoke or amend the survivor's trust. After both deaths, assets pass to the beneficiaries specified in the original joint trust.
Is our trust a grantor trust?
Yes. Our trust is designed as a grantor trust, meaning the trust is essentially transparent for tax purposes. Your SSN is still used (not a separate EIN), and tax reporting is done on your personal return.
Does your trust include spendthrift provisions?
Yes. Our trusts are grantor trusts that include spendthrift provisions, which help protect trust assets from beneficiaries' creditors.
Can a trust protect my assets from creditors?
Revocable living trusts are generally not used for asset protection. Most asset protection trusts are not very effective because one of the fundamental legal principles is that each person should bear responsibility for their debts. If you can choose to distribute assets to yourself, you could theoretically be required to distribute them to a creditor.
Do you offer trusts in Louisiana?
We don't currently offer trusts in Louisiana. Louisiana has estate laws based on Napoleonic law, and its unique succession model is not compatible with our trust product.
Can I name a company as my successor trustee?
Yes, you can name a company, bank, or professional fiduciary as a successor trustee. However, our platform doesn't currently support adding custom provisions or specific legal language. If the organization you'd like to name requires special wording to accept the appointment, a local attorney may be able to add the necessary language.
Can I name Trust & Will as my successor trustee?
You can name Trust & Will as a successor trustee. However, this does not guarantee we will serve in that role. After someone passes, we review the trust and determine whether we or one of our partners are able to formally accept the appointment. There is no cost today to name Trust & Will. Any future fees would only apply if and when Trust & Will formally accepts the role. Professional trustees typically charge between 1% and 2% of the total trust value annually.
What if my trustee is incarcerated or unable to serve?
If your trustee cannot serve because they are deceased, unavailable, or incapacitated, your named successor trustee steps in. If no named successor is available or willing to act, a court will determine who should serve.
Can I name a non-U.S. person as trustee?
We don't prohibit appointing non-U.S. persons. Some states prefer a local person in these roles given the amount of work that takes place in the U.S. Having someone outside the U.S. may create difficulties for in-person appearances, and they may need to hire a U.S. attorney to handle certain issues.
What are the trustee and executor responsibilities?
Trustees and executors have overlapping but separate responsibilities. The trustee oversees the trust; the executor handles the will. They often need to work closely together. We have a helpful guide: trustandwill.com/learn/successor-trustee-checklist.
What is a certificate of trust?
A certification of trust is an abbreviated summary designed for banks and others who need to deal with the trust. Standard forms should be accepted, but some banks may require their own form. A full copy of the trust works in nearly all cases if the certification is not accepted.
What is the schedule of assets (Exhibit A)?
The schedule of assets (Exhibit A) is an inventory of the assets you've entered online. It provides your trustees with information about your assets for their convenience. This document is not legally binding and does not require signing. You can update it anytime by re-printing after adding new assets.
What is the bill of transfer?
The bill of transfer is a template included in the trust funding guide. It's used to transfer tangible assets that don't have a deed or title into your trust.
What is HEMS?
When you add age-based conditions for beneficiaries, assets are held in trust subject to a HEMS standard. This means assets can be used for the beneficiary's Health, Education, Maintenance, and Support. Income earned may be distributed, and beneficiaries can access funds as needed for these purposes.
What is the marital share provision?
The marital share provision is a tax and accounting mechanism that ensures certain assets are deemed to belong to the surviving spouse, qualifying for beneficial tax treatment. It includes assets passing to the survivor's trust due to the death of the decedent.
Can I create a trust with a non-U.S. citizen spouse?
We don't have citizenship requirements. However, some tax benefits that apply to U.S. citizen spouses may not apply to non-citizen spouses, potentially affecting assets left to the surviving spouse. You may wish to consult with an attorney for more specific guidance.
Can I create a trust if I have a prenuptial agreement?
Yes. Our documents support spouses with prenups. Using a joint trust does not turn all assets into community property. Spouses with a prenup can still hold separate property under a joint trust.
Can I create an anonymous trust?
While a trust offers more privacy than a will, our trusts aren't designed for complete anonymity. You can name your trust anything you'd like. The details remain private, and the trust avoids the public probate process, but your name may still appear on assets within the trust. For total anonymity, you'd need to work with a local attorney.
Do you offer irrevocable trusts?
No. We offer revocable living trusts, which account for the vast majority of trusts created. An irrevocable trust cannot be changed after creation without the beneficiaries' consent, and they're fairly uncommon in standard estate planning. You would need to work with an attorney for an irrevocable trust. Contact us if you'd like a referral.
Do you offer special needs trusts?
We do not currently offer special needs trusts. You'll likely need to work with an attorney for this type of trust. Contact us and we can help provide referrals.
Can I use a trust to make funds available to loved ones while I'm alive?
A revocable living trust generally isn't the right mechanism for making funds available during your lifetime. The trust assets remain yours, and beneficiaries can't access them without your approval. Shared accounts, UTMA accounts, or simply writing checks are more common approaches.
What is homestead and does a trust affect it?
Transfers to a living trust generally won't jeopardize a homestead property tax exemption, as long as the settlor retains the right of occupancy (which is the case with our trust). Check with your county for specific instructions.
Do I need to update my trust if I move states?
A trust created through our platform remains valid if you move, but it's a good idea to review your documents since trust, healthcare, and POA laws vary by state. Currently, our platform does not support restating an existing trust to a new state once documents are signed. You can create a new trust or consult with an attorney to review your documents.
Is there a deadline to complete my trust?
No. You can work at your own pace. From the date of purchase, you have a full year of free edits and updates. After the first year, you can purchase another year of updates for $39.
What about Medicaid and trusts?
In most states, the state may recover benefits paid during your lifetime after your death. Some states allow recovery from assets in a revocable living trust; others only allow recovery from probate assets. The rules for Medicaid eligibility vary by state and can be very complex, with many exceptions. Holding assets in a revocable living trust typically does not change eligibility limits.
What are the next steps after completing my trust online?
Download or ship your documents from the "Estate Plan" tab. Take them to a notary to sign alongside two witnesses. Once signed, keep the documents safe and let the people you've named know where they're located. There's no requirement to file documents or send them to us.
After signing, begin the funding process: moving assets into the trust so they can avoid probate. We provide a trust funding guide with steps on how to transfer different types of assets.
For notary services, we've partnered with Mobile Notary Zone.
Funding your trust
What does "funding a trust" mean?
Funding a trust refers to the process of titling your assets in the name of your revocable living trust. The trust document controls what happens to assets in the trust, so only assets that have been transferred are managed by the trustee and can bypass probate.
How do I transfer real estate to my trust?
Transferring real estate requires signing a deed to transfer your interest to the trust, then recording that deed with the county. The process varies by state, and each county may have formatting and filing requirements. "Quit claim deeds" or "trust transfer deeds" are most commonly used. Your county recorder can provide specific information and often a blank deed template.
We also offer a deed transfer service through uDEED at $265 per deed (plus recording fees). Schedule a virtual consultation. Alternatively, you can do it yourself through eForms at $55 per deed (plus recording fees) at eforms.com.
Will transferring my home to a trust affect my mortgage?
Generally, transferring residential property to a revocable living trust will not impact your mortgage. Many mortgages include a due-on-sale clause, but federal and state laws say these clauses are not triggered by transferring most residential real estate to most trusts. It's still a good idea to contact your lender and get written confirmation before recording the transfer deed.
Will my homeowner's insurance be affected?
Most insurance policies related to real estate automatically cover property transferred to a trust. However, it's a good idea to check with your insurer and see if any updates are needed.
How do I fund bank and financial accounts?
Most financial institutions have their own process. You'll typically need to complete paperwork to update the account. Some institutions keep the same account numbers; others issue new ones. Contact your financial institution for specific requirements.
Can I name the trust as a beneficiary on a bank account?
Some banks allow you to name a living trust as the beneficiary instead of transferring ownership. This depends on the policies of the specific financial institution.
How do I handle jointly owned bank accounts with separate trusts?
Many banks allow two trusts to jointly own an account. If your bank doesn't, you can set up the account to pass to the surviving spouse upon death. The surviving spouse can then add the account to their trust afterward.
How do I transfer investment accounts and stocks?
Investment accounts are handled in two steps: list the asset in your trust's schedule of assets, then have the financial institution change the account owner to the trust name. The ownership change happens after the trust is signed and valid. See our trust funding guide for more details.
Should I transfer my retirement accounts (IRA, 401k) to the trust?
It's generally not necessary, and transferring ownership can have negative tax effects. Instead, you typically designate a beneficiary on the account. A common approach is to name a spouse as the primary beneficiary and the trust as the alternate. Contact your plan administrator for beneficiary designation forms, and consider consulting a financial or tax advisor for your specific situation.
What about life insurance policies?
It's generally not necessary to transfer ownership. Instead, update the beneficiary designation. A common approach is to name a spouse as the primary beneficiary and the trust as the alternate. Having proceeds go to the trust allows them to be distributed under the trust's terms, which can be useful for younger beneficiaries. Contact your insurance carrier for beneficiary designation forms.
How do I handle 529 education savings plans?
529 plans have both an owner/participant and a beneficiary. In most cases, you can designate the trust as the successor owner/participant, rather than transferring the account now. The trust should not be named as the beneficiary (that should be the student). Contact your 529 plan administrator for the required forms.
What about health savings accounts (HSAs)?
HSAs are more like retirement accounts that allow withdrawals for medical costs. Like retirement accounts, HSAs allow you to designate a beneficiary to receive any remaining proceeds.
How do I transfer cryptocurrency to my trust?
For crypto in a hosted wallet (like Coinbase), check if you can list the trust as the account owner. Not all hosted wallets support trust ownership yet. For crypto in hardware wallets, treat it like cash: list it in the trust under "Other Assets" and be specific so it's considered part of the trust. You can also list it in the bill of transfer document.
How do I transfer vehicles?
You can transfer vehicles to your trust, but some insurance companies don't handle trusts well. You may need to name the trust or trustees as additional insureds. Some people choose not to put personal vehicles in their trust and instead rely on the pour-over will. The value is usually low enough that it qualifies for a simplified probate process. Check with your insurance carrier first.
How do I transfer an LLC to my trust?
Transferring an LLC typically involves completing an assignment of interest to assign your ownership to the trust. Review your LLC's operating agreement first, as it may include restrictions or required approvals. After the assignment is signed, some members also amend the operating agreement to reflect the trust as the new owner. We recommend consulting an attorney for complex questions.
How do I transfer oil, gas, or mineral rights?
These rights come in different forms. Some are treated like real property (requiring a deed), some are contractual (requiring an assignment), and some may need documentation provided to the operators. The documentation to transfer your interest usually takes the same form as the documentation that gave you ownership. Check with any company operating or managing those interests for guidance.
How do I transfer a timeshare?
You can list a timeshare in the Real Estate section or Other Assets section. Then update the deed to list the trust as the property owner. The timeshare company should be able to provide information about their policies for this type of transfer.
How do I transfer royalties?
Most royalties are intellectual property, transferred by an assignment to the trust. Some types (such as music royalties) may have additional requirements through organizations like ASCAP. Check that the licensing agreement providing the royalties can be transferred to a living trust.
How do I handle property owned by my business?
Most people who hold property in an LLC will transfer the LLC to the trust without also transferring the property out of the LLC. This means the trust owns the LLC, and the LLC owns the property.
Can I transfer property I'm currently buying?
If you're purchasing a home, the trust can buy the property and hold the deed from the initial purchase. If you're too far along in the process, you can transfer the deed after closing. We offer a deed transfer service or you can reach out to your local county clerk's office.
Can I transfer property I co-own with someone who isn't my spouse?
You can transfer your portion (such as 50% interest) into a trust. Transferring only your interest will most likely result in the trust and the other owner holding the property as tenants in common rather than joint tenants. The key difference: under joint tenancy, a deceased co-owner's interest automatically goes to the other owners; under tenancy in common, each owner can specify what happens to their interest.
What about foreign assets?
We don't restrict adding foreign property to your trust. However, our documents are designed to reflect U.S. laws only. Foreign property may require foreign probate or a more complex administration. Many people create a separate plan for non-U.S. assets.
Where can I find the trust funding guide?
The trust funding guide is included with your trust-based plan and is available at trustandwill.com/learn/how-to-fund-a-trust.
Healthcare documents
What is an advance health care directive?
An advance health care directive (also called a living will) lets you specify what type of medical care and treatment you would like if you're unable to make that decision later. It's a legal document that expresses your wishes about medical treatment.
What is a healthcare agent?
A healthcare agent is the person responsible for making medical decisions on your behalf if you're unable to. This can be anyone you choose, even someone you've named for other roles in your plan (such as your executor). Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/what-is-an-advance-directive.
What is HIPAA authorization?
HIPAA is a federal law that protects your medical information. A HIPAA authorization lets you designate certain people to discuss your health condition with your doctors. This works alongside your advance healthcare directive.
I see a duplicate name on my HIPAA form
This happens when a healthcare agent is also listed in the section asking about additional people who should access your medical records. Since your healthcare agents already have access, you don't need to list them again. Remove the duplicate by going to the Healthcare section, scrolling to the question about additional people, and removing the healthcare agent from that list.
What is a power of attorney (POA)?
A durable power of attorney is a type of financial POA that gives legal rights to an agent to step in and deal with non-medical affairs. The "durable" part means it remains intact if you become incapacitated. This is useful for preparing for the possibility of becoming unable to manage your affairs due to an accident or illness.
Why is the power of attorney form blank?
The power of attorney cannot be filled out online due to various federal and state regulations. We provide a template that needs to be completed by hand.
Who can be my POA agent?
Your POA agent can be anyone you choose, including your spouse or someone named for other roles in your documents.
Does the POA agent need to sign at the same time as me?
No. Depending on your state, your power of attorney form may require a notary to sign with you, but your agent's signature can be obtained at any time, even if they live out of state. Follow the signing instructions on the first page of each document.
Should my POA be effective only upon incapacity?
It's possible to make a POA effective only upon incapacity, but this often creates problems. If the POA requires proof of incapacity, banks and other institutions may request legal documentation, complicating and delaying the process. That's why it's more common to have an immediately effective POA.
How do I revoke an old POA?
This depends on what the existing document says and whether it specifies requirements for revocation. In most cases, the goal is to notify both the agent and any third parties who know of the POA.
What is a DNR?
A Do Not Resuscitate order is a medical order issued by a doctor prescribing no treatment. Only a medical professional can issue a DNR. Most people looking into a DNR actually want to specify their treatment preferences through a healthcare directive, which is a different legal document. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/dnr.
What's the difference between the healthcare treatment options?
"Benefits outweigh the burdens" is more permissive: it allows treatment if the net benefit is likely to outweigh the burdens. "Only if improve" is more restrictive: it excludes all treatment other than treatments that will lead to recovery. For example, a respirator might be allowed under the first option but not the second.
Can my healthcare documents have a different signed date than my estate plan?
Yes. The signing date in the application applies only to your estate plan documents (trust, pour-over will, certificate of trust), not healthcare documents. If you signed them on different days, that's perfectly fine.
Guardians for children
How does guardian designation work?
You can specify your preferences for who should raise your children by nominating guardians in your estate plan. You can also provide preferences for how your children should be raised, including education, family visitation, and engagement with community or religious organizations. These preferences are typically non-binding but helpful for your guardians.
What if the other parent is alive?
Most states give the other parent priority as guardian, even if you nominate someone else. We still recommend nominating who you want, as the other parent may be unable or unwilling to serve.
Can I exclude someone from being a guardian?
Our software does not support naming people you don't want as guardians, and it's not typically necessary. You can designate who you do want, and in nearly every case your designation will be honored. In rare cases where your designated guardian can't serve, the court independently investigates and will not appoint anyone who isn't in the child's best interest.
Can I name a guardian who lives outside the U.S.?
There's no strict requirement that a guardian be a U.S. resident. However, courts usually need to approve the designation and may prefer a local guardian to maintain oversight of the child's care.
Do you offer temporary guardian provisions?
We do not have a provision for temporary guardians. Temporary guardians are only used in some states and are often less useful than they seem, as the appointment process can take several days. In the interim, a child is often placed with local family, friends, or a backup guardian.
How do I account for future children?
Our documents are designed to cover current and future children as a group. If you're expecting, you can enter the due date and anticipated name (or a placeholder) and update after the child is born.
Who can be a guardian?
You can nominate anyone. For guidance, see our article on how to appoint a guardian.
Distributions, beneficiaries, and gifts
What is the difference between gifts and beneficiaries?
In the gifts section, you designate specific assets to go to specific people. These gifts are distributed first. In the beneficiaries section, you designate who receives everything else that's not listed as a gift, specified as a percentage. You can add multiple gifts using the "Add Another Gift" button.
What is a gift?
Designating something as a gift means you want a specific asset to go to a specific person. For example, you could distribute everything equally among your children but designate your grandfather's watch as a gift to your brother. The watch goes to your brother; everything else goes to your children.
Can I add conditions to gifts?
Our platform does not currently support conditional instructions for individual gifts (such as alternate recipients in different scenarios). You can edit your plan if something changes during your lifetime. For additional wishes or context, you can include a separate letter of instruction. For complex conditional planning, a local estate planning attorney may be able to help.
How do gifts work in a couple's will?
If you list a gift in both wills, the recipient receives the gift upon each individual's passing. For example, if both wills leave $2,000 to someone and both spouses pass, the recipient receives $4,000 total. Conditions on gifts (such as "only if both spouses pass") are not currently supported.
What is "per stirpes"?
Per stirpes means each branch of your family receives an equal share. If one of your children predeceases you, their share goes to their children (if any). Your children are referred to as a group for flexibility to accommodate future children. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/per-stirpes-definition.
What is "pro rata"?
Pro rata means the distribution is always equal relative to the number of beneficiaries named. If one of three beneficiaries passes, their portion is divided equally among the remaining two. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/pro-rata.
How do I leave assets to a minor beneficiary?
If you name a child as a beneficiary, assets can be held in trust until they reach age 18 (or older if you specify). While held, assets can be used for the child's health, education, maintenance, and support. The guardian can request the trustee make distributions for the child's needs.
Should I leave assets to my guardian or to my children?
If you designate assets to your guardian, they belong to the guardian and can be used for anything. If you designate them to your children, the guardian manages them on the children's behalf and can use them to cover the children's expenses. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/who-should-be-my-beneficiary.
What about current and future children as beneficiaries?
Our documents are drafted to cover your current and future children as a group, so they don't need to be named specifically. This keeps the document flexible. If you prefer to list children by name with specific percentages, you can choose that option instead.
How do I identify my beneficiaries?
We don't require phone numbers, addresses, or Social Security numbers. It would be inappropriate to include an SSN. If you want to add context, you can include a parenthetical, like "John Smith (my friend from Main St. Bridge Club)." You can also create a separate contact sheet kept with your documents.
Can my beneficiaries live outside the U.S.?
There's no requirement that beneficiaries be U.S. residents or citizens. Some countries may have inheritance taxes on assets received from a decedent.
How do I exclude someone from my plan?
You can specifically exclude anyone by name under "Exclusions" in the Distributions section. This is different from simply not mentioning someone. Omitting someone could be argued as forgetting them, which may give them a legal right to inherit. Listing them as excluded makes it clear the omission is intentional.
Can I make a charitable donation?
Yes. In the Charitable Organization section, you can specify an amount to go to a charity as a gift. This is distributed before other assets and allows you to leave a specific monetary amount.
What if there are no surviving beneficiaries?
If no beneficiaries are legally entitled to inherit, your assets "escheat" to the state, meaning the government receives the property.
What about beneficiary designations vs. a trust?
Beneficiary designations are simple ways to say what happens to certain assets after death, but they're not a substitute for an estate plan. Trusts offer more control over when and how assets are distributed, plus protections during incapacity and at death. Beneficiary designations are best when coordinated with an estate plan.
Making edits and updates
How do I make edits to my plan?
Click "Estate Plan" in the left-hand menu, which opens your Designation Summary. Scroll to the section you'd like to update, click "Edit" in the top right corner of that section, and it will take you back to the questionnaire. Click "Save and Continue" below each question, then click "Looks Good" at the end to save your updates and regenerate your documents.
How do I edit on a mobile device?
Use the three-line menu at the top right of your screen to navigate to your homepage and press "Edit designations." Scroll to the section you'd like to update and tap "Edit" or "View." You may need to minimize the chat box. Be sure to click "Save and Continue" on each question and "Looks Good" at the end.
How do I edit a couple's will?
Both wills are in your account. Some questions are asked for both of you; others are asked individually. Go to your homepage, edit designations, and click "Edit" on the Basics section. Review all questions, and make sure to click "Looks Good" at the end of each document preview. There will be a separate preview for each spouse.
How do I edit my assets?
Navigate to your Estate Inventory in the left-hand menu, find the asset, click on it, press "Edit" at the top right, make your changes, and click "Save."
Can I make changes after signing?
Yes. Make the changes in your account, then re-print or re-ship the updated documents and sign and notarize again. The exception is asset information: if you add a new asset (like a new home), you just re-print the relevant schedule or report without re-signing.
How do I start over?
Go to your homepage, select "Edit designations," then click "Edit" beside the Basics section. This takes you back to the very first question, and you can revisit all questions from start to finish.
Can I edit the PDF or add custom provisions?
We don't currently support adding custom conditions or provisions, and we don't recommend editing the document language directly. The documents are designed to work together, and adding or removing language could have unintended consequences.
My documents need to be unlocked after I accidentally marked them as signed
Contact our support team and we can submit a request to remove the signed date so you can continue editing. This requires some backend work, and we'll email you once the change is complete.
Signing, notarization, and witnesses
How do I sign my documents?
Each set of documents includes specific instructions on the first page. In general, each document requires your signature alongside witnesses and a notary. Check your documents for your state's specific requirements.
Who can be a witness?
Anyone at least 18 years old who is not related to you and not mentioned in your documents. If finding witnesses is tricky, consider asking neighbors, coworkers, or friends not included in your plan. Banks and UPS stores that provide notary services can often help coordinate witnesses.
Can a notary serve as a witness?
It is not recommended and may be improper for a notary to serve as a witness. For example, if a notary witnessed the signing and then was asked to notarize their own signature on a self-proving affidavit, it would be highly improper.
Where can I find a notary?
Most banks have notaries available for their customers, as do most UPS stores. Call ahead to confirm availability and verify fees. You can also search for notaries near you here.
We've also partnered with Mobile Notary Zone, which brings a notary and witnesses to your home or a location you choose.
Can I e-notarize my documents?
In some states, you can e-notarize through notarize.com. You'll be paired with a notary via webcam. You'll still need two witnesses physically present who are not mentioned in your documents or related to you.
Can I notarize out of state?
Yes. It's at the notary's discretion to sign documents created for another state. Your documents reference your state of residence, so the notary would add their own details for their state.
A notary rejected my documents
There is no law against notarizing your will. State law expressly allows a notary to notarize these documents as part of making a will self-proving. Some notaries have employer policies restricting certain document types, but this is a policy limitation, not a legal one. Banks tend to be more restrictive. Try an independent notary, AAA office, or UPS store. It may help to clarify that the notarization is for the self-proving affidavit that accompanies the will.
What is a self-proving affidavit?
Notarization is not required to make a will legally valid (the minimum is your signatures and two witnesses). However, notarization makes the will "self-proving," eliminating the need for witnesses to testify about the will's execution after death. We design our wills to be self-proving, as the short-term effort of getting a notary is typically much less than the long-term burden of relying on witness testimony.
What about notary fees?
Notary fees vary by state. Check the fee for your state at trustandwill.com/learn/notary-fees.
Can I sign documents if I live outside the U.S.?
Our documents are designed for those domiciled in the U.S. It may be possible to obtain notary-equivalent services through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, or a local foreign notary with authentication. Check with the Embassy, Consulate, or your state's Secretary of State for options.
How do I mark my documents as signed?
Log in, click "Estate Plan" on the left-hand menu, select the "Documents" tab, click on a document, and select "Mark as signed." Enter the date your documents were notarized. This lets the platform know you've signed, so future changes are formatted as amendments with the correct legal language.
What do I do after signing?
Keep the documents somewhere safe (many members use a fireproof and waterproof safe). Let the people you've named, and other trusted individuals, know you have an estate plan and where it's located. You are not required to file or send documents anywhere. You can also upload a copy to the Digital Safe in your Trust & Will account.
Shipping and documents
How do I download or ship my documents?
Log in and click "Estate Plan" in the left-hand menu, then select the "Documents" tab. Click "Download All" to download and print, or "Ship documents" to request printed copies mailed to you. Allow 5–7 business days for delivery.
How much does a reshipment cost?
Your first shipment is complimentary. Additional shipments are $25 for a will plan and $35 for a trust plan. To reorder, click "Estate Plan," select "Documents," and click "Ship Documents."
Can I cancel a shipment?
We cannot cancel a shipment once it has been packaged. You can request a reshipment from your account if needed.
Do I need to send my signed documents back?
No. You keep the original signed documents. Only the original, signed copy is legally binding, so store it in a safe place.
Can I make copies of my signed documents?
Yes. A copy isn't equivalent to the original but can be useful. For example, banks will often accept a scan or copy of your trust. The original is most useful if there's a dispute about validity. Note: you can only have one signed and notarized set of documents. Signing a second set automatically revokes the first.
Do I need to file or record my documents?
There's no requirement to file or record your documents. Some states or counties have a local office where you can optionally record your will for safekeeping. Once signed, store the documents safely and let trusted people know where they are.
How should I store my documents?
Keep the original signed copies somewhere safe. Many members use a fireproof and waterproof safe. You can also upload a copy to the Digital Safe in your Trust & Will account. Only the physically signed originals are legally valid, but a digital backup is a great idea for reference. If your originals are ever lost, your legacy contact can request access to the Digital Safe after your passing.
Can I download individual documents?
Yes. Click the document title to review it, then press "Print / View" to open the PDF in a new tab where you can download or print. To download all documents together, click "Estate Plan" then "Download All."
Attorney support
What is attorney support?
Attorney Support is an optional add-on for $299 that gives you access to a licensed estate planning attorney in your state. It includes legal advice from estate planning attorneys, line-by-line document review, guidance with funding your trust, and estate planning advice throughout the year.
To check if Attorney Support is available in your state, click here.
How do I add attorney support?
Log in, click "My Account" in the top-right corner, select "Profile & settings," scroll to the "Add-ons" section, and select "Attorney Support."
How do I schedule an attorney consultation?
Log in and click "Attorney Support" in the left-hand navigation menu. If it's your first appointment, you'll sign the attorney-client agreement. Then select "Schedule a Call," choose a date and time, answer the short questionnaire, and click "Schedule the Event." You'll receive a confirmation email and the attorney will call at your scheduled time.
How does Trust & Will choose its attorneys?
We verify each attorney's active license, confirm they're in good standing with their state bar, and review their firm's reputation. We speak directly with each attorney about their experience, communication style, and alignment with our values. Partnered attorneys review our documents and workflows as part of onboarding. We maintain the partnership through regular check-ins, annual license reviews, and continued collaboration.
Attorney support isn't available in my state
If Attorney Support isn't available in your state, you can still complete your estate plan without it. Our support team can help with general questions (though not legal advice). You may also work with a local estate planning attorney using your Trust & Will documents. If you'd like, we can connect you with a trusted attorney in your area. Just let us know your city or county and preferred contact method.
What does my spouse need to do for the attorney agreement?
You can enter your name and sign as the account holder. Your attorney will manually send a separate agreement to your spouse approximately 24 hours before the consultation.
How do I remove attorney support from my cart?
At checkout, look for the "Remove" option next to the Attorney Support section in your cart.
Can an attorney customize my documents?
Our Attorney Support provides legal advice regarding your plan but doesn't customize the documents within this service. For document customization, we recommend consulting with an attorney outside of Trust & Will. We're happy to refer you to a state-specific attorney if you'd like.
Updating an existing trust
Can I update my existing trust through Trust & Will?
Yes, you can update most revocable living trusts through our platform. After completing your basic information and payment, you'll be asked if you have an existing trust. Your state, marital status, and trust type (individual or joint) determine compatibility.
How does updating an existing trust work?
We don't need a copy of your existing trust. Our system creates a new trust document that references your existing trust, stating that previous terms will be amended with the new terms. This means you can update most provisions while keeping any assets already transferred to your existing trust.
Should I update my existing trust or create a new one?
Updating your existing trust keeps it intact and creates a new document referencing and amending it. You won't need to move assets already in the trust. Creating a new trust is separate from your existing one: any assets you want in the new trust must be transferred to it. Your existing trust stays as-is.
Estate inventory and assets
Why don't my asset totals seem correct?
In the Assets section, there are separate tabs for each spouse. Your tab shows only assets you own solely or jointly with your spouse, not assets your spouse owns solely. Your spouse's tab shows the reverse.
Why don't account numbers appear in my documents?
We don't include account numbers because they're not legally required and can cause complications, especially since account numbers change over time. Just listing the types of accounts at each institution is sufficient. If you'd like to include account details, keep them on a separate page alongside your documents.
What about accounts that already have beneficiary designations?
You can still list assets with existing beneficiary designations. Beneficiary designations on financial accounts supersede your estate plan. When listing assets online, you're taking an inventory so your executors or trustees know where to find them.
What about debts and liabilities?
Debts are not listed in your schedule of assets or estate plan report because they represent obligations, not property. However, you can document debts in your estate inventory to help your trustee or executor understand outstanding obligations. You can track debts through your estate tax report.
Can I list a lawsuit as an asset?
A lawsuit is more of a liability than an asset to list in your trust. You can still include it in the "Other" section of assets for inventory purposes.
What are digital assets?
Digital assets include email accounts, social media, online banking, subscription services, e-commerce accounts, cloud-stored photos, cell phone apps, gaming accounts, utility accounts, and loyalty program benefits. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/digital-estate-planning.
What is the Zillow Zestimate?
We use Zillow's Zestimate to automatically estimate your home valuation when you add real estate. The estimate refreshes every 24 hours. You can turn it off anytime by editing the property and unchecking the Zillow/Zestimate option, then entering your own estimate. Keep in mind it's a reference, not a formal appraisal.
What is Plaid?
Plaid is a secure third-party service we use to help you connect financial accounts to your estate inventory. It uses industry-leading encryption, and Trust & Will never sees or stores your bank login credentials. If your bank isn't supported by Plaid or you have connection issues, you can always add accounts manually by selecting "Add manually."
What is Canopy Connect?
Canopy Connect is a secure tool that lets you import life insurance policy details directly into your estate plan from supported insurance providers. Details like your insurance company, death benefit amount, cash value, and beneficiaries are pulled in automatically. Some fields may appear locked because they come directly from your provider. If your carrier isn't supported, you can enter details manually.
What is plan strength?
Plan Strength tracks the overall completeness of your estate plan: how many key steps have been completed. A lower score usually means there are steps left to finalize, like signing documents, writing a letter of instruction, adding a legacy contact, or transferring assets. As you complete these tasks, your score increases.
Membership, updates, and renewals
What are estate plan updates?
Your first year of updates is included with your purchase. After the first year, you can add another year anytime:
- Will-based plan: $19/year
- Trust-based plan: $39/year
Updates allow you to modify your documents, record new assets, and use the digital vault for storing important documents.
How do I purchase another year of updates?
Click "My Account" at the top right, then "Profile & Settings." Scroll to the "Estate plan updates" section where you can purchase updates for another year.
How do I cancel auto-renewal?
Go to "My Account," select "Profile & Settings," and scroll to "Estate Plan Updates." Click "Turn off Auto-Renew" to cancel. Note that auto-renew cannot currently be turned back on, but you can always purchase a single year of updates manually.
Do my documents stay valid after my update period expires?
Yes. Your will or trust remains valid even if your update period expires. Estate planning documents don't expire. If your plan was properly executed, it remains legally valid unless you choose to make changes. We only reach out directly if a major legal change could significantly affect existing plans. Review your plan after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
How do I add a spouse to my plan?
Log in, click "My Account" at the top right, then "Profile & Settings." Scroll to the "Add ons" section where you can add your spouse.
Refunds and billing
What is your refund policy?
We have a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows you to complete the process, and if it's not a good fit, you can request a full refund within 30 days of payment. See our refund policy for full details.
Privacy and security
How does Trust & Will protect my data?
Trust & Will uses industry-standard, bank-level security measures and encryption. We only ask for information necessary to create your estate plan. We do not collect Social Security numbers or bank account numbers. Everything you share is treated with the same high level of care and security.
What information do you collect?
We collect your name, basic family information, and your preferences for a few choices (like naming individuals for roles and choosing how to distribute assets). We do not collect Social Security numbers, account numbers, or other particularly sensitive identifiers.
How do I opt out of data sharing?
To update your privacy preferences directly, scroll to the bottom of our website and click "Your Privacy Choices" in the footer. Toggle off any data sharing or personalization settings and click "Save." You can also contact our support team to have your information excluded from third-party sharing.
I'm not receiving SMS messages
Your phone carrier may be blocking messages from our number. Membership numbers are sometimes flagged as spam. Contact your phone carrier to learn how to allow messages from our number.
After a loved one passes
I'm looking for the estate plan of someone who has passed
We're unable to provide specific information about our users or members per our privacy policy. Documents created through Trust & Will are not valid unless physically signed, meaning the signed originals would be in the individual's possession.
I'm the legacy contact and need access to documents
If you've been named as a legacy contact, we can send you the documents after verifying your identity. You'll need: the email that nominated you as legacy contact (screenshot or forward to support@trustandwill.com), a death certificate, and a valid government-issued ID. We'll contact you through a secure channel to complete verification.
I'm the executor/trustee and need account access
You'll need documentation demonstrating your legal authority (such as trustee or executor authority), a death certificate, and a valid government-issued ID. Our documents team will email you directly with detailed instructions from ops-docs@trustandwill.com.
What is a legacy contact?
A legacy contact is someone you designate to have read-only access to your Trust & Will account data after your death. They can view an inventory of assets and unsigned digital copies of estate plan documents. Please note that unsigned documents are not legally enforceable. Make sure your executor or trustee knows where to find the signed originals.
How do I add a legacy contact?
Click "My Account" in the top right corner, choose "My Profile & Settings," find the Security section, and click "Add" next to Legacy Contact. They'll receive an email notification about their read-only access.
There is a deceased person's name on a property deed
Property records are meant to be an unbroken chain of ownership. When a property owner dies, a new deed or document should be recorded to show what happened to the property. This is typically handled during the post-death administration (or probate) process. A missing document in this chain could create complications later when trying to sell, transfer, or mortgage the property.
What about unpaid mortgages?
If a mortgage isn't paid off before the plan creator passes, the beneficiary receiving the home typically has two options: sell the property to pay off the mortgage and keep the remaining balance, or keep the home and pay off the mortgage. Learn more at trustandwill.com/learn/assumption-of-mortgage-after-death.
General questions
Can someone help me create my plan?
It's possible for someone to assist you in creating your estate plan, but you must actively make all designations and decisions. Documents must reflect the wishes and intent of the person whose estate is involved. Anyone assisting must have your permission and operate solely under your direction.
Can I only list one name per line?
Yes. Our documents are designed for one name per line to avoid complications (for example, if only one of two listed people is available). Some members do add two names to a line, but we can't speak to how that might be interpreted legally.
Can I appoint a minor for a role (like executor or trustee)?
People you name must generally be at least 18 to fill the role when the time comes. It doesn't matter what age they are now. If they're still under 18 when needed, the next person named assumes the role.
What about estate taxes?
The federal estate tax threshold is quite high (over $11 million for an individual), so most people don't need to worry about it. Some states have their own estate taxes at lower thresholds. We can't provide advice on estate tax for specific situations.
What about inheritance taxes?
There's no federal inheritance tax, but six states impose one: Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. In all of these, a surviving spouse is exempt. Tax rates range from 0% to 18% depending on your state, relationship to the deceased, and the amount inherited.
What is a letter of instruction?
A letter of instruction is not legally required or recognized by state law. It's designed to express final wishes, from how the estate plan should be carried out to the location of important documents and guidance for loved ones. We have a step-by-step guide on how to write one.
What types of funeral services are there?
A funeral service is held to memorialize a deceased person with their body present. A memorial service is held without the body present. A cemetery service is held graveside, similar to a funeral service but may be scaled back.
Can an estate plan be contested?
Any estate plan can be contested, but the key is whether it will survive a contest. Our plans include provisions that discourage contests, and you can expressly disinherit anyone you don't want to include. Most contests allege improper signing or that the plan was created based on deception, coercion, or fraud. That's why proper signing and notarization are so important.
What is marital status and how do definitions work?
Select your current legal marital status. Options include: married, civil union, domestic partnership, engaged, widowed, divorced, or single. If you're going through a divorce, list your current legal status and update once it's finalized.
How do I reach support?
You can reach us by phone at 1-866-908-7878 (Monday–Friday, 7 am–5 pm Pacific), by email at support@trustandwill.com, or via the live chat on our website. Chat typically provides the fastest response.
How do I contact Mobile Notary Zone?
For questions about orders with Mobile Notary Zone, contact them at admin@mobilenotaryzone.com or call 1-800-939-5837.
How do I contact Bundle for deed services?
For orders placed with Bundle, email singleorder@bundletoday.com or call (866) 333-3081. They typically respond within one business day.
Can I co-own property with someone who isn't my spouse?
The people named on a deed are generally the ones who decide what happens to the property. We can't advise on occupancy rights or specific ownership questions, as these depend on state law. An attorney can provide guidance for your specific situation.
Trust & Will is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. For legal questions specific to your situation, please consult a licensed estate planning attorney. You can reach our support team at support@trustandwill.com or 1-866-908-7878.