What is a Trust Fund? 

A trust fund is a type of financial tool used to hold and protect assets. It allows an individual or organization to store and share assets in a tax-advantageous manner, and it allows the grantor to decide how funds will be distributed to the beneficiaries. In addition to being a financial tool, a trust fund can also be a valuable estate planning tool. 

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The creation of a trust can be a complicated process, so it is often wise to consult an estate planner. If you are considering a trust, be sure to work with an attorney who is well versed in all aspects of the law. Trusts can be created for a variety of reasons, including protecting assets from legal actions, reducing inheritance taxes, or ensuring that a beneficiary has access to funds until he or she reaches a certain age. 

To create a trust, you will need to determine who you want to benefit from your asset allocation and designate a trustee. Once you have chosen a trustee, you will need to choose what assets you want to include in the trust and how you intend to distribute them. Typically, the trustee will use the assets to pay off the grantor’s debts and then distribute the remaining principal to the beneficiary. 

Creating a trust can be a daunting task, but it can prove to be a life saver in the event of a tragic event such as the loss of a spouse. Not only will a trust provide you with peace of mind, but it will help you avoid the costs of probate and the complications of distributing a large sum of money. 

Creating a trust can be as simple as writing a will, or as complex as designing a fully functional living trust. There are various types of trusts, and a variety of financial institutions offer trust accounts. Oftentimes, you will be required to open a new account, so be sure to consult a financial expert before making a final decision. 

In addition to being a financial tool, the trust fund has other benefits, including providing privacy to the grantor and his or her heirs. This can be especially important if you have children who are still young. An example of a trust might be a UGMA/UTMA custodial account, which allows the transfer of assets to a minor child. 

One of the most exciting aspects of a trust is the opportunity to set and implement the rules of distribution. This can include setting a minimum age for a beneficiary to access funds, as well as the requirement to make a certain amount of annual distributions. 

Another fun aspect of a trust is that it can save you time and energy in the event of a catastrophic event. For instance, a trust might be the only way to ensure that a small inheritance will be left to a charity. Or, if you are in the market for a home, a trust can be the perfect solution for avoiding a costly and lengthy process known as probate.