Funding your trust is a critical step in the estate planning process.
A trust is only effective if your assets are properly transferred into it—this process is known as “funding” the trust. Our Funding Guides are designed to provide you with clear, step-by-step instructions to help you move your assets—such as bank accounts, investments, and real estate—into your trust with confidence and ease.
Why Funding Matters
Creating a trust is an important first step, but it’s the funding process that ensures your wishes are carried out. If assets are not properly titled in the name of your trust, they may still be subject to probate, defeating one of the main benefits of having a trust. Proper funding helps you:
- Avoid probate for funded assets
- Ensure seamless management in case of incapacity
- Provide clear instructions for your beneficiaries
- Maintain privacy and control over your estate
What Our Funding Guides Cover
Our comprehensive Funding Guides walk you through the process for a variety of asset types, including:
- Bank Accounts: How to retitle checking, savings, and money market accounts in the name of your trust.
- Investment Accounts: Steps for transferring brokerage and retirement accounts, and what to consider for beneficiary designations.
- Real Estate: Instructions for preparing and recording deeds (such as a quitclaim deed) to transfer property into your trust.
- Life Insurance & Annuities: How to update ownership or beneficiary designations to align with your estate plan.
- Personal Property: Guidance on assigning valuable personal items to your trust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Each guide provides:
- A checklist of required documents and information
- Sample forms and letters for financial institutions
- Tips for working with banks, brokers, and county offices
- Common pitfalls to avoid
- Recommendations for when to consult an attorney
