Our Most Frequently Asked Trust Administration Questions
If you are serving as a successor trustee after the death of a loved one, these answers can help you understand your first steps, your responsibilities, and when it may be time to get legal guidance.
What Should a Trustee Do First After Someone Dies?
A trustee should first secure important documents, obtain certified death certificates, review the trust and any amendments, identify assets, and determine immediate financial obligations.
What Does a Successor Trustee Do?
A successor trustee is responsible for carrying out the instructions in the trust after the trust maker dies or becomes incapacitated. This may include managing assets, communicating with beneficiaries, paying debts and expenses, and distributing property according to the trust.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Administer a Trust?
Many successor trustees benefit from legal guidance because trust administration can involve strict deadlines, notices, tax issues, beneficiary communication, asset transfers, and potential personal liability if mistakes are made.
How Long Does Trust Administration Take in California?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the trust, the assets involved, tax issues, beneficiary cooperation, and whether disputes arise. Some administrations are completed in months, while more complicated matters may take longer.
What Is the Difference Between Probate and Trust Administration?
Free Resources for Trustees and Beneficiaries
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What happens to bank accounts when you die in California?
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What is a probate referee, and how do I get one?
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How can I access the safe deposit box that contains my parent’s will?
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Do I need to hire the same estate planning attorney used by my loved one to help with probate?
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What is a spousal property petition?
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What is a rabbi trust?
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Do beneficiaries have the right to see trust bank statements in California?
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What is the probate threshold in California?
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What happens if someone dies without a will?
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Does every estate go through probate?
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What should a trustee not do?
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What happens if beneficiaries disagree with the trustee?