The True Cost of a Revocable Trust
Are you considering a revocable trust as part of your estate plan? You're not alone if you’re wondering about the expenses involved. Let's break down the costs of setting up and maintaining this powerful estate planning tool.
Initial Setup: What to Expect
The cost to establish a revocable trust can vary widely, typically ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. Here's what influences that price:
Complexity of Your Estate: More assets and beneficiaries may mean higher costs.
Attorney's Experience: Seasoned estate planning lawyers may charge more, but often provide valuable expertise.
Geographic Location: Legal fees tend to be higher in major metropolitan areas.
Flat Fee vs. Hourly Rate: Pros and Cons
Many attorneys offer flat fees for revocable trusts, which can provide peace of mind about total costs. However, hourly rates might be more cost-effective for simpler estates.
Beyond the Document: Comprehensive Planning
A well-crafted revocable trust is just one piece of the puzzle. Your estate plan may also include:
Pour-over will
Durable power of attorney
Healthcare directives
While these additional documents may increase upfront costs, they create a robust plan that truly protects your legacy and avoids legal complications later.
The Good News: Minimal Maintenance
Once established, revocable trusts typically have low ongoing costs. You'll need to:
Retitle assets into the trust (often a one-time process)
Update the trust document for major life changes
Remember, many attorneys offer free or low-cost updates for existing clients!
Regular Reviews: An Investment in Peace of Mind
We recommend reviewing your trust every 3-5 years or after significant life events. While this may involve some cost, it ensures your plan remains aligned with your wishes and current laws.
The Bottom Line: Value vs. Cost
While creating a revocable trust involves some expense, consider the potential savings:
Avoiding probate fees
Reducing potential taxes
Protecting assets for your loved ones
Ready to explore if a revocable trust is right for you? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We'll provide a clear picture of the costs involved and help you determine if this powerful tool aligns with your estate planning goals.
About the Author
Leslie has been practicing law since 2009 and is the host of the estate planning podcast 'Legacy Purse'. She has a long history of representing family members struggling to inherit property and/or wealth from deceased family members through the Probate Courts. Knowing how time-consuming and expensive the probate process is, Leslie takes great pride in helping her clients learn how to plan and protect their families during their lives so they can avoid the probate court process and save their loved ones that additional grief (and expense).
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