What is a Trust?

A trust is simply your instructions of all or part of your property. An attorney who represents you and has expertise in the area of estate planning should create your trust. The trust document describes:

• How you want your assets managed and eventually distributed
• Who you want to benefit from your assets now and in the future
• Who you want to be responsible for carrying out these instructions

What Can a Trust Do for You?

A trust can provide a measure of comfort knowing that you have a plan in place to help provide for the safe and accountable management of family assets, and to direct their use in accordance with your wishes, goals, and objectives.

Additional Benefits

• Provides protection for family members who may be unaccustomed to dealing with financial matters
• Offers protection of assets in case of divorce or other litigation
• Can assure that funding is available for specific needs, such as education, health care, or charitable interests
• May provide substantial tax benefits (please consult a tax advisor) and an expedient method to transfer assets

See Also

• Your Financial Advisor's Role
• Your Trustee's Role
• Getting Started