How does a trust arrangement differ from a will alone?
Wills generally speak at death and often require probate for certain assets; inter vivos or testamentary trusts may alter administration timing, trustee powers, and privacy—subject to drafting, funding, and applicable statute.
A will is usually a single instrument that disposes of property you own individually at death, subject to creditor claims and court oversight where probate applies. It is familiar to banks and land registries once properly proved.
Trusts can offer flexibility for ongoing management, privacy in some contexts, or staggered payouts, but they also involve setup costs, careful funding of assets, and trustee duties that continue over time. They are not automatically “better” than a will for every household.
This article is informational; whether a trust suits you requires fact-specific advice from a qualified practitioner.
Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and is not legal advice. Rules vary by province and change over time; speak with a qualified lawyer about your own circumstances.
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