Flexible Estate Planning: DIY Options or Professional Support

The Cost of Changing a Trust — And Why Updating Yours Matters

The Cost of Changing a Trust — And Why Updating Yours Matters

A living trust isn’t a one-and-done document. As life changes — marriage, divorce, new children, property purchases, or shifting financial goals — your trust should change with you. However, many people hesitate to update their trust because they’re worried about the cost.


Here’s a simple 3-minute breakdown of what it typically costs to change a trust, and how Oak GenWealth makes this easier and more affordable than most.

 


1. Why You Might Need to Change a Trust

Common reasons people update their trust include:

  • Marriage or divorce
  • New children or grandchildren
  • Buying or selling real estate
  • Changing beneficiaries
  • Naming a new trustee
  • Starting or selling a business
  • Updating your wishes around inheritance or distributions

A trust that isn’t updated can cause major confusion, disputes, or even unintended disinheritance.

 

2. Typical Attorney Costs for Changing a Trust

Most attorneys charge for every amendment — and those fees vary widely depending on complexity.

Typical Attorney Fees:

  • Simple amendments: $200 – $500
  • Moderate changes: $500 – $1,200
  • Major restatements: $1,500 – $3,000+
  • New deeds for property transfers: $150 – $400 per deed

For families with ongoing life changes, these fees can add up quickly.

 

3. DIY or Online Trust Changes

Online platforms tend to be more affordable than attorneys, but pricing still varies.

Typical DIY Costs:

  • Basic amendment forms: $50 – $250
  • Full trust restatements: $250 – $1,000
  • Additional fees for notarization and witnesses: $10 – $50

DIY can be cost-effective, but risky if the amendment isn’t drafted or executed correctly.

 

4. The Cost of Changing a Trust at Oak GenWealth

Here’s where we are different.
At Oak GenWealth, we do not charge to make changes to your trust. Once you purchase your trust package, updates are included at no additional cost. That means you can update your:

  • Beneficiaries
  • Trustees
  • Property list
  • Distribution instructions
  • Guardianship preferences
  • Medical and financial directives (if included)
  • Any other personal instructions

Life changes — and your trust should be able to change with you without financial penalties.

 

5. What You Might Still Pay For

Although updates to the trust itself are free, some outside services may still have small fees:

  • Notary fees: $10 – $50
  • Property deed transfers: $50 – $300 recording fee, depending on the county
  • Mobile notary: $25 – $75

These costs come from local agencies — not Oak GenWealth.

 

6. Why Keeping Your Trust Updated Saves Money

An outdated trust can lead to:

  • Probate court involvement
  • Family disputes
  • Delays in inheritance
  • Legal challenges
  • Higher attorney fees later

A small update today can save your loved ones thousands tomorrow.

 

Final Thoughts

Changing a trust shouldn’t be stressful or expensive. While most attorneys and online platforms charge for every amendment, Oak GenWealth believes your estate plan should evolve with your life — without the burden of extra fees.

Your trust should grow with you, adapt with you, and reflect your life as it changes. And updating it shouldn’t cost you a thing.

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