I.2

Testamentary Trust

The Trust Created by Your Will

A Testamentary Trust is for people who may not need a full Revocable Living Trust now but still want structure, protection, and control for loved ones after death. This trust says: "I don’t want assets handed over blindly." It allows someone to create rules, timing, and protections through their Will.

What it is

A Testamentary Trust is a trust that is created through your Last Will and Testament and only comes into existence after your death. Unlike a Revocable Living Trust, it is not active during your lifetime. Instead, it acts as a future protective structure for beneficiaries.

Why people use them
  • protect children
  • stagger inheritances over time
  • prevent reckless spending
  • provide oversight
  • create structure for future generations
Biggest myth

A Will is enough.

Sometimes it is. Sometimes it isn’t. A Testamentary Trust adds layers of protection and guidance that a simple outright inheritance does not.

An example

Instead of "Here’s your inheritance at age 18," the trust may say: one-third at 25, one-third at 30, remainder at 35. Or sometimes: "The trustee decides what’s appropriate."

Who this trust is good for
  • Parents with young children
  • Families concerned about maturity
  • Individuals wanting structured inheritance
  • Blended families
  • Families with addiction concerns
  • Anyone wanting more control after death
The Deeper Idea

A Testamentary Trust is often less about money and more about timing. Sometimes inheritance is not about "If." But "When."

Conversations We’re Having About This Trust
Should your 18-year-old inherit $500,000?
The inheritance mistake many parents make.
A trust created after death.

Schedule a Complimentary 30-Minute Consultation

At Hurwitz.Law, we believe that thoughtful planning begins with a meaningful conversation.

We offer a private, 30-minute consultation—by phone or Zoom—for individuals and families considering estate planning, elder law, or trust administration services. This conversation allows us to understand your goals, answer your questions, and help determine whether our firm is the right fit for your needs.

Our firm is intentionally boutique. We work with a limited number of clients so that we can provide a high level of personal attention and care. If we’re not the right fit, we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.

This consultation is not a sales pitch. It’s a conversation rooted in clarity, respect, and the belief that your time—and your legacy—deserve both.

Schedule a Consultation

Prefer to talk first? Call us at (215) 967-7890.