Will and trust documents are often created at the same time. This is because a person may wish to separate certain assets from the estate so that they do not become part of the probate process. A trust offers an easy way to set aside funds, property, or other valuable items in a special account. The person creating a living trust (the grantor) can continue to control and benefit from these assets by naming him/herself the trustee and beneficiary. When the grantor is deceased the assets in the trust pass directly to one or more successor beneficiaries.

A will can be used to detail how items not placed in the trust are distributed. This is useful for determining who will receive items that have sentimental value rather than monetary value. The will is also the appropriate document for outlining other last wishes. For example, the testator (the person making the will) may list where he/she wishes to be buried and the financial account from which funeral expenses should be paid. An executor can be named in the will to make sure that all probate matters are handled by someone the testator trusts.