What Happens to the Trust When I Die in Kansas?

December 22, 2023

Understanding what happens to your trust after you pass away is vital to estate planning in Kansas. We’re here to go through these considerations with you at the Law Office of Andrew Rowe, P.A. A trust is a legal arrangement where you entrust your assets to someone (a trustee) to manage and eventually pass on to your beneficiaries. But what exactly unfolds when the trustor, you, are no longer here?

Immediate Steps After the Trustor’s Passing

When a trustor (the person who established the trust) passes away, several critical steps must be taken to ensure the proper management and distribution of the trust assets. The trustee, appointed by the trustor, plays a central role in this process. Here’s a detailed look at the immediate actions required after the trustor’s passing:

  1. Notification of the Trustor’s Death: The trustee’s first responsibility is to notify all relevant parties of the trustor’s passing. This includes:
    1. Beneficiaries: Individuals or entities designated to receive benefits from the trust.
    2. Co-trustees: If any, who share the responsibility of managing the trust.
    3. Legal and Financial Advisors: Professionals who might assist in managing the trust’s affairs.
    4. Other Relevant Parties: Financial institutions, accountants, or entities involved with the trust’s assets.
  2. Gathering and Inventorying Trust Assets: The trustee must identify and take inventory of all assets held in the trust. This step includes:
    1. Locating Documents: Finding the trust document and any related paperwork, such as property deeds, stock certificates, bank and investment account statements, life insurance policies, etc.
    2. Valuing Assets: Determining the current value of the trust assets. This might involve real estate, business interests, and personal property appraisals.
    3. Asset Control: Securing and taking control of these assets to ensure their safety and proper management.
  3. Paying Debts and Taxes: The trustee is responsible for settling the trustor’s debts and fulfilling tax obligations:
    1. Debts and Expenses: These might include funeral expenses, outstanding bills, or other debts the trustor owes. The trustee must ensure these are paid from the trust assets.
    2. Tax Filings: The trustee must file any necessary tax returns for the trust. This includes a final individual income tax return for the deceased trustor and, if necessary, estate tax returns. They must also handle ongoing trust income tax obligations.
  4. Distributing Assets to Beneficiaries: After debts and taxes are settled, the trustee must distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust. This process involves:
    1. Understanding the Trust Terms: Carefully review the trust document to know how and when the assets will be distributed.
    2. Communicating with Beneficiaries: Keeping the beneficiaries informed about the process and possible delays.
    3. Distribution: Transferring assets to beneficiaries. This could be a straightforward transfer of funds or may involve more complex steps if the trust dictates specific conditions for distribution.
  5. Legal and Record-Keeping Responsibilities: Throughout this process, the trustee must maintain accurate records and comply with legal requirements:
    1. Record-Keeping: Documenting all actions taken, including payments made, assets collected and distributed, and decisions regarding the trust’s administration.
    2. Legal Compliance: Ensuring all steps comply with the trust document and state laws.

The Role of Trusts in Avoiding Probate in Kansas

One of the significant advantages of having a trust in Kansas is avoiding the probate process. Unlike a will, a trust doesn’t go through probate, which means your beneficiaries can often access the assets more quickly and with less legal hassle. This is incredibly comforting during grief, as it simplifies the process and maintains privacy.

Types of Trusts and Their Implications for Death

  1. Revocable Living Trusts: In Kansas, a revocable living trust becomes irrevocable upon the trustor’s death. The trustee will then manage and distribute the assets according to the pre-set terms of the trust.
  2. Irrevocable Trusts: These trusts remain irrevocable after death. The asset distribution is carried out per the trust’s instructions and is often used for specific purposes like caring for a disabled relative or charitable giving.

Contact the Law Office of Andrew Rowe, P.A. for Trust Planning in Kansas

While we’re always available for urgent situations, remember that the typical process from consultation to finalizing the paperwork usually spans a month. Call us today at 316-202-0131 or online to schedule a consultation with a dedicated Estate Planning Lawyer serving clients in Kansas. Preparing for the future, including managing your trust posthumously, doesn’t have to be daunting. Let us guide you in ensuring your legacy is collected and distributed according to your wishes.