Most assets don't have formal titles or deeds. This includes things like clothing, furniture, jewelry, electronics, etc. While there is no formal title, it is still important to transfer these assets to the Trust. This can easily be done by signing a general transfer document (included in our Trust Funding Guide) stating that the property is now owned by the Trustee of the Trust. Just keep this document with the Trust records.
The transfer document should list the assets you are transferring to the Trust. It’s good to be specific, but you can use broad categories (“furniture,” “clothing,” and “jewelry”) without listing every item in those categories. If you have any assets that are specifically listed in the Trust (such as an item marked as a gift) or assets that are particularly valuable, it might be worth listing those items individually, rather than relying on a broad category.
Vehicles
It's not very common to transfer ownership of cars, boats, RVs, and other vehicles to a Trust. Vehicles are usually retitled by affidavit after death or a Transfer on Death Deed designation. You can use this sample language to create a Bill of Transfer here - Feel free to change the wording to fit your needs. Once the document is signed, you can keep it with your Trust records.
Learn how to title Assets here and where to find your Taxpayer Identification Number here. You can also view our full Trust Funding Guide here!
This information is intended as a reference only. It is not legal advice nor intended to cover every possible situation. Please consult an attorney if you have specific questions. Some details for funding your Trust may change over time. For example, if the Trustee changes, that would likely affect how you would title assets held in the Trust.
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