What is the significance of a pour-over will?

A pour-over will is primarily significant because it ensures that any assets not previously transferred into a trust during the testator's lifetime are transferred to that trust upon the testator's death. It acts as a safety net, capturing assets that may have been inadvertently left out of the trust. This mechanism allows the trust to manage those assets according to the terms set forth in the trust document, preserving the overall intent of the estate planning process.

The ability to funnel assets directly into a trust simplifies the distribution process and provides continuity in managing the estate. The assets that pour into the trust can then be administered according to the specific provisions outlined within the trust, ensuring that the testator's wishes are honored.

While a pour-over will can also serve as a backup to a trust, its primary function is the direct transfer of assets to that trust upon death, which is the key significance that distinguishes it from other types of wills or estate planning documents.