Decide the type of trust you want
Identify the grantor
Choose the trustee
Name the beneficiaries
List the trust assets
Decide whether the trust is revocable or irrevocable
Draft the trust document
Include distribution terms and trustee powers
Sign the trust document according to state law
Notarize or witness the document if required
Transfer assets into the trust
Update titles, deeds, and account ownership as needed
Obtain an EIN if required
Keep records of trust assets and transactions
Review and update the trust as laws or circumstances change