A will is the foundation of every estate plan. It's the document that puts your wishes in writing — and ensures the people you love are protected if the unexpected happens.
A Last Will & Testament is a legally binding document that expresses your wishes for how your assets should be distributed after you die — and who should care for your children if you're no longer there.
Without one, state law makes those decisions for you. That means a court decides who raises your children, who gets your home, and who inherits your savings — based on a one-size-fits-all formula that may not reflect your family at all.
A will changes that. It puts your decisions on the record, in your words.
Every eLegacy will is drafted by a licensed attorney and tailored to your specific situation — never a template, never a questionnaire.
Directs the distribution of your assets and names an executor to carry out your wishes.
Names a trusted person to care for your minor children — the most important protection a parent can provide.
Designates someone to manage your finances if you're ever unable to do so yourself.
Names someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf during an emergency.
Documents your end-of-life care preferences so your family never has to guess.
Guidance for your executor on accessing and managing digital accounts and online assets.
You're starting outModest assets, no real estate yet — a will is a simple, affordable foundation.
You have childrenA will is the only document that lets you name a legal guardian for your minor children.
You want control over your estateWithout a will, your state's intestacy laws decide who gets what — and it may not match your wishes.
You want peace of mind, fastA will gives you the essentials in a single, focused engagement — no overcomplicating things you don't need yet.
of Americans have no estate plan — leaving their family's future up to the state
of an estate is typically lost to probate fees and court costs when there's no plan in place
is the typical probate timeline when assets are tied up in court without a plan
A will is a great place to start. For some families — especially those with real estate, blended households, or privacy concerns — a trust offers protections a will alone can't.
| Feature | Will | Revocable Living Trust |
|---|---|---|
| Takes effect | At death only | Immediately (and at death) |
| Requires probate | ✗ Yes — public court process | ✓ No — bypasses probate entirely |
| Privacy | ✗ Becomes public record | ✓ Completely private |
| Incapacity protection | ✗ Not covered | ✓ Successor trustee steps in |
| Asset transfer speed | 12–24 months (probate) | Weeks — no court delays |
| Names guardian for children | ✓ Yes | ✗ Requires a pour-over will too |
| Upfront cost | Lower | Higher upfront — saves more long-term |