Decide the purpose of the trust fund
Choose the assets or money to place into the trust
Select the type of trust you want to create
Choose the grantor
Choose the trustee
Choose the beneficiaries
Decide when and how beneficiaries receive distributions
Draft the trust document
Include clear instructions for management and distribution
Sign the trust document according to state law
Fund the trust by transferring assets into it
Retitle accounts or property in the trust’s name
Obtain any required tax identification numbers
Review beneficiary designations on related accounts
Keep records of all trust assets and transfers
Consult an estate planning attorney or financial professional