Decide whether a revocable living trust or irrevocable trust fits your goals
List all assets you want the trust to hold
Choose a trustee to manage the trust
Choose a successor trustee
Name beneficiaries
Decide how and when assets will be distributed
Gather legal names, addresses, and asset details
Draft the trust document
Sign the trust document according to state law
Notarize the document if required
Transfer ownership of assets into the trust
Update deeds, titles, and account registrations
Retitle bank and investment accounts if needed
Assign beneficiary designations where appropriate
Create a pour-over will
Keep copies of all trust documents and transfer records
Review and update the trust after major life changes
Consult an estate planning attorney if needed