Many people believe that once they sign their trust documents, their estate plan is complete. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Without proper trust funding, even the best-drafted trust won’t protect your assets or help your loved ones avoid probate. At Shore Estate Law, we guide families through this often-overlooked step to ensure their trust works the way it’s intended to when it matters most.
We’ve met clients who came to us after a loved one passed away with a beautifully written trust that had never been funded. Their bank accounts, home, and investments were still titled in their own name, so the family was forced to go through probate despite having a trust. It was heartbreaking to see their frustration, because this could have been avoided with a little extra guidance and follow-through.
Trust funding simply means re-titling your assets into the name of your trust or naming your trust as the beneficiary where appropriate. This step legally connects your property to the trust so that it is managed and distributed according to your wishes without court involvement. Assets that are not properly titled in the trust may be subject to probate, delaying access and adding costs for your family.
We help you inventory your assets and identify what needs to be retitled, what can remain outside of the trust, and how to update beneficiary designations. We also explain how to handle future assets so that your trust remains up to date as your life and finances change. This ongoing support is what keeps your plan effective long after you leave our office.
Imagine putting your trust in place and knowing that it’s more than just a stack of paper. Your home, your accounts, your investments are already aligned with your wishes and ready to transfer seamlessly to your loved ones when the time comes. You can rest easy knowing you’ve given your family the gift of a smooth, efficient transition.
Don’t let an unfunded trust leave your family stuck in probate. Take the next step to secure your plan today. Request a free consultation and let us help you make sure your trust is properly funded and ready to protect what matters most.
