Many people believe funding their trust is a single task completed right after signing documents. In reality, funding is an ongoing process.
Life changes. Assets change. Laws change. Your trust must keep up.
Every time you acquire something significant — a new home, bank account, investment account, or business interest — ownership must be considered. If assets are titled in your individual name, they may bypass the trust entirely. Common situations where funding gaps arise:
Without updates, your carefully designed plan can slowly unravel.
Florida law is unique, especially regarding homestead property. If you created your trust in another state and later become a Florida resident, your plan and funding should be reviewed to ensure:
Failing to update can create unintended consequences for surviving spouses and heirs.
Not all assets should be retitled into a trust. Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and certain financial products pass by beneficiary designation. These designations must be coordinated with your trust to avoid conflicts, tax issues, or unintended distributions.
Funding is not just about ownership — it’s about alignment.
Experts often recommend reviewing your estate plan every 3–5 years, or sooner after major life events. Ask yourself:
If the answer to any of these is yes (or “I’m not sure”), a review is wise.
A properly funded and maintained trust can mean:
✔️ Faster administration
✔️ Lower costs
✔️ Greater privacy
✔️ Reduced stress for loved ones
✔️ Clear management during incapacity
It turns a stack of documents into a functioning plan.
Signing your trust documents is an important milestone — but it isn’t the finish line. It’s the starting point.
Funding and maintaining your trust ensures your intentions become reality when your family needs them most. Ready to plan? Book a call today.
