I May Be Gone, But I Still Control My Assets: How a Trust Can Help You Rule from the Grave

It’s a question we all eventually face: What happens to everything I’ve worked so hard for after I’m gone?

While it may feel a little odd to plan for what happens when you're not around, the truth is—estate planning is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. And if you want to keep a strong say in how your assets are handled after you pass, establishing a trust might be the key.

What Is a Trust?

Think of a trust like a treasure chest. You put your assets into it—your home, savings, investments—and lock it with specific instructions. You choose a trustee (a trusted individual or institution) who will carry out your wishes, and you decide when and how your “treasures” are shared with your beneficiaries.

Unlike a will, which kicks in only after death and goes through probate (a public court process), a trust can be active while you’re living and continues privately after you’re gone.

Why Use a Trust?

Here’s how a trust can give you lasting control over your legacy:

• ✅ Avoid Probate: Assets in a trust don’t have to go through the often lengthy and expensive probate process.
• ✅ Stay Private: Wills are public record. Trusts? Not so much. Your assets and decisions remain confidential.
• ✅ Control the Timing: Want your kids to inherit funds at age 30, not 18? Want to stagger distributions over time? A trust lets you decide.
• ✅ Protect Beneficiaries: Trusts can shield assets from your beneficiary’s divorce, creditors, lawsuits, or even poor financial decisions.
• ✅ Plan for Incapacity: A living trust can also help manage your assets if you become unable to do so yourself due to illness or injury.

Real Control, Real Peace of Mind

Setting up a trust isn't just for the ultra-wealthy. Whether you own a cabin up north, a house in the suburbs, or simply want to protect what you’ve built—it’s a smart move for many Minnesotans.

By creating a trust, you're not just passing along your assets. You're passing along your values, your timing, and your voice—even when you're not here in person.

Let’s Make a Plan

You don’t have to figure this out alone. An estate planning attorney can help you craft a trust tailored to your goals and family dynamics. You’ve built your legacy—make sure it’s carried out just the way you want.

To learn more about estate planning, keep an eye on our Events page located at: https://www.wagnerlegalmn.com/events/.

If you’re ready to see how a trust may fit in your estate plan, contact us to get started.

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