Revocable living trusts have earned a mixed reputation. Many believe they are an essential part of any estate plan, while others view them as unnecessary and burdensome.

The most commonly cited benefit of a revocable living trust is the avoidance of probate—allowing assets to circumvent a decedent’s estate and pass to beneficiaries directly through the trust. In states such as California and Florida, where the probate process is notoriously complex and costly, revocable living trusts are ubiquitous. But in Pennsylvania, where the probate process is relatively simple, revocable living trusts are often used for the same reason. But is it worth it?