Decide whether a living trust is the right estate planning tool for your situation
Identify the type of trust you want to create
Choose the person who will create the trust
Choose the trustee who will manage the trust
Choose one or more successor trustees
List the beneficiaries of the trust
Decide which assets you want to place in the trust
Gather the legal names and details of all parties involved
Draft the trust document
Include instructions for managing and distributing assets
Sign the trust document according to your state’s legal requirements
Have the trust notarized if required
Transfer ownership of selected assets into the trust
Update deeds, titles, and account registrations as needed
Review beneficiary designations on related accounts
Store the trust documents in a safe place
Keep copies for the trustee and relevant advisors
Review and update the trust after major life changes
Consult an estate planning attorney if needed