The Golden Rule of Trust Funding
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A trust is like a vault. Drafting the document builds the vault, but you must place your assets inside by changing titles and deeds. Assets that are not properly transferred to or otherwise connected with the trust may still be subject to probate.
Asset Retitling Rules of Thumb
- Real Estate: Record a new Quitclaim or Grant Deed with your county recorder.
- Bank Accounts: Present your Certificate of Trust to retitle account ownership.
- Retirement Accounts: Do NOT retitle directly. Update the beneficiary designation and seek professional review.
Reviewed for educational accuracy
Last reviewed: September 30, 2026 · Next scheduled review: March 2027
This article is educational information and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. No attorney has reviewed this material unless a named, licensed attorney is credited above.
Sources & References
This article was prepared using publicly available legal and government sources. Laws change, and readers should verify current rules in their jurisdiction.