Almost all of our clients ask us whether they should have a revocable living trust (RLT). While we absolutely love the flexibility and protections RLTs provide, not everyone under the sun needs one. Use this checklist as your own. If any of these statements ring true to you, place a checkmark in the corresponding box like this ☑.

I want to:

☐ Control my property while I’m alive

☐  Take care of myself and my loved ones even if I become incapacitated or disabled

☐ Pass my property to my heirs when and how I want

☐ Keep my family and financial affairs private

☐ Avoid court interference

☐ Avoid probate

☐ Give all inheritances layered in asset protection, so my beneficiaries don’t lose their inheritance during divorce, bankruptcy, medical crisis, business failure, car accident, lawsuit, etc.

☐ Protect my assets so that they cannot be lost if my spouse/partner gets remarried

☐ Avoid beneficiary overspending and misuse of funds

☐ Educate my children and grandchildren

☐ Reduce the risk of will contests

☐  Minimize taxes

☐ Minimize attorney, court, and administrative fees

☐ Benefit a charity

☐ Protect and provide for a pet

If you check off something on this list, then let’s discuss whether an RLT is a good fit for you. If you check off many things on this list, an RLT is probably a good fit; and, if you check off nothing, will-based planning may be a better fit. Rest assured, this checklist is just an initial measurement of goals; we always talk everything through with our clients to make sure you have the absolutely best plan for your individual situation.

“Excellent service based on expert knowledge. Working with Corey was fantastic. My wife and I were setting up a new business, and needed to have a complete estate plan established. Corey not only covered the basics, but included important protections for our children’s future that I never would have thought of. He also made sure we understood how to use the information in order to update other assets like life insurance. I have recommended Corey to several of my friends, and will continue to do so without reservation.” – Tim (Belton, MO)

“I recommend Corey Rasmussen. Corey handled my Trusts matter. I have previously worked with 1-2 lawyers. Corey, was great. He went above and beyond my expectations. He came to our house to provide services (more than once). He was very patient and helpful to me. He actually sorted my mail related to our business! He was easy to talk to and explained things at a level that was understandable to us.” – Tammy (Lawrence, KS)

“Excellent Attorney for Wills and Trusts. Corey helped us revise and update our trust and wills. He showed great interest in us and was extremely thorough. Corey spent considerable time explaining the whole process. We believe he is an excellent attorney and would recommend him to anyone needing help revising or creating a trust.” – Connie (St. Joseph, MO)