How is a trust administered after my death?

After your death, your successor trustee takes over the trust to manage and distribute your assets according to your instructions. The trustee identifies and secures all trust assets, pays debts and taxes, manages any ongoing responsibilities, and provides accountings to beneficiaries.

Once everything is settled, the trustee distributes the remaining assets to your beneficiaries. Because a trust avoids probate, this process is typically faster, more private, and less expensive than going through court.