Living Trust
A trust created during life to hold assets and pass them on without probate.
What Living Trust means in an estate
A living (inter vivos) trust is set up while the grantor is alive, who typically moves assets into it and manages them as trustee. When the grantor dies, a named successor trustee distributes the trust assets to beneficiaries outside probate. A living trust only avoids probate for assets actually retitled into it, an often-missed funding step.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how living trust is handled where the estate is being settled.
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Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.