---
type: Reference
title: Common Trust Types in Missouri
description: Quick reference mapping common Missouri trust types to their goal, whether they are revocable, and key notes.
resource: https://nemolegal.com/trusts-missouri/
tags: [trusts, trust-types, missouri, reference]
timestamp: 2026-06-18
jurisdiction: Missouri
author: Patrick Nolan
---

# Common trust types

| Trust type | Typical goal | Revocable | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revocable living trust | Probate avoidance, incapacity plan | Yes | Fund during life; coordinate TOD and POD; privacy and control |
| Irrevocable trust | Asset preservation, tax or Medicaid planning | No | Fewer control rights, stronger protection; timing matters |
| Special needs trust (d4A or d4C) | Preserve benefits for a disabled beneficiary | No | Must follow federal and state rules; spending is coordinated |
| Spendthrift or discretionary | Creditor or divorce risk mitigation | Either | Trustee controls distributions; interests cannot be assigned |
| Bypass or credit shelter | Use estate-tax exemptions efficiently | Irrevocable at death | Often paired with QTIP |
| QTIP or marital | Provide for a spouse, keep ultimate control | Irrevocable at death | Income to spouse for life; remainder as directed |
| Medicaid asset protection trust | Protect home or savings with timing | No | Look-back applies; careful design and funding required |
| ILIT | Remove a life-insurance policy from the taxable estate | No | Handles premium gifts via Crummey notices |
| Testamentary | Trust created inside a will | Irrevocable at death | Funded after probate opens; used for minors or staging |

# Note

Most families need one well-designed plan, not many trusts. Match the structure to the actual goal.

# Related

- [Overview](/okf/trusts-probate-avoidance/overview.md)
- [Special Needs Trusts](/okf/special-needs-trusts/index.md)