Do You Need a Will or Trust in 2025? Here’s How to Decide
- mrsniccolgordon
- Nov 30, 2025
- 2 min read
Planning ahead isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for anyone who wants to protect the people and assets they care about. Whether you own a home in Queens, run a small business, or simply want to make sure your final wishes are honored, having the right estate plan is essential.
But should you choose a Will or a Trust?
Here’s a simple quick guide to help you decide:
What a Will Covers
A Will lets you:
Choose who receives your property
Appoint guardians for minor children
Provide simple instructions after death
Good for:
Families with modest assets, renters, singles, and anyone who wants a basic plan in place.
Important Note:
A Will can be contested and must go through probate, which can be slow and public in New York.
What a Trust Provides
A Trust lets you:
Avoid probate and keep your affairs private
Transfer property quickly to loved ones
Provide clear financial instructions if you become ill or incapacitated
Protect real estate and business assets
Great for:
Homeowners, landlords, investors, business owners, and anyone focused on protecting family wealth long-term.
Simple Breakdown
You want… | Best Option |
A basic plan for your family | Will |
To protect property — especially a home | Trust |
Privacy and fast distribution of assets | Trust |
Guardianship for children only | Will |
Ongoing protection as you age | Trust |
Often, the best strategy is both, a Will for guardianship + backup, and a Trust for property and financial protection.
We Can Help You Put the Right Plan in Place
Express Tax Professionals provides:
Guidance on Wills & Trust documentation
Property + legacy planning
Notary execution for legal forms
Support for estate-related tax filings
Here is a know fact: Less than 7% of Black and Brown persons in NYC pass without a Will or Trust in place and waste years, time and money in probate.
PLEASE DO NOT THINK THIS IS IT, THERE IS SO MUCH MORE TO CONSIDER.
DO NOT CONSIDER THIS LEGAL ADVICE.
DO NOT TAKE THIS INFORMATION TO CHATGPT AND ATTEMPT TO BUILD A PROMPT AND DO A DIY WILL OR TRUST.
WILLS AND TRUST ARE VERY STATE AND INDIVIDUAL SPECIFIC
Your legacy deserves a plan — let’s secure it together.
Written By: Dr. Niccol Gordon
Queens Estate Planning • NYC Will or Trust • Protect Home Equity NY • Black-Owned Estate Planning Firm
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