If you created a trust in California, obtaining a Certification of Trust can simplify trust administration and avoid revealing sensitive details. A Certification of Trust is a concise document that summarizes key powers and the existence of the trust without disclosing its full terms. Many banks, title companies, and third parties will accept a properly prepared Certification of Trust to confirm the trustee’s authority to act, allowing transactions to proceed more smoothly. This page describes the purpose of a Certification of Trust, typical uses in San Mateo County, and how the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman can prepare this document tailored to local requirements.
Residents of Brisbane and neighboring communities often seek a Certification of Trust when managing real estate, accessing financial accounts, or transferring property to a trust. The document reduces friction by presenting only critical trust information, such as the trust name, date, trustee identity, and signing authority, while keeping detailed provisions private. A well-drafted Certification of Trust follows California statutory form and practice and anticipates common institutional questions. On this page you will find clear explanations of how a Certification of Trust works, what details are usually included, and practical steps to ensure your trust administration goes forward without unnecessary delays.
A Certification of Trust plays an important role in protecting privacy and facilitating transactions. It provides proof that the trust exists and names who may act for the trust without disclosing the trust’s substantive provisions, preserving confidentiality for beneficiaries. Institutions commonly request this form to confirm that the trustee has authority to transfer, encumber, or manage trust assets, which streamlines closings and financial dealings. In many situations a Certification of Trust prevents the need to provide the full trust document, reducing administrative burden and the potential for unnecessary exposure of family or financial details. Proper wording makes institutional acceptance more likely.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman serves San Jose and the Bay Area, including Brisbane, with a focus on estate planning and trust administration. Our firm assists clients with drafting trust instruments, preparing ancillary documents like Pour-Over Wills and Certifications of Trust, and guiding trustees through post-death administration tasks. We understand how local banks, title companies, and courts typically review trust documentation, and we draft documents to reduce friction during real estate closings, account transfers, and other trust-related transactions. Clients appreciate practical guidance, reliable communication, and documentation aligned with California law and local practice.
A Certification of Trust is a focused, statutory-style statement that confirms the existence of a trust and the authority of named trustees. It is designed to provide third parties with enough information to accept a trustee’s actions without reviewing the full trust instrument. Key elements typically include the trust name, the date of the trust, the identities of current trustees, and a summary of the trustee’s authority to act on behalf of the trust. Because institutions vary in their acceptance standards, a Certification should be tailored to address common questions while keeping the trust’s substantive terms private and secure.
While a Certification of Trust does not replace the trust document itself, it serves as a practical tool to reduce administrative delays. Many financial institutions and title companies will request signatures, notarization, or additional identification before accepting a Certification of Trust. Preparing the Certification with clear references to governing law and including necessary trustee signatures and acknowledgments increases the likelihood of acceptance. This approach helps trustees carry out transactions such as selling property, transferring accounts, or managing investments without exposing detailed provisions of the trust to third parties.
A Certification of Trust is a concise, limited-disclosure document that verifies the trust exists, identifies the current trustees, and states the trustee’s authority to act on behalf of the trust. It is often based on statutory language designed to satisfy banks and other institutions that require proof of authority. The Certification avoids revealing private provisions such as beneficiary designations, distribution schedules, and specific asset allocations. Because it is narrowly tailored, a Certification reduces the need for third parties to request the full trust instrument, making day-to-day trust administration and transactions faster and less intrusive for the trust family.
Drafting a Certification of Trust involves confirming the trust name and date, identifying current trustees, and setting forth the powers the trustee may exercise. The process includes reviewing the trust to confirm trustee appointment and any limitations, preparing wording that aligns with institutional expectations, and including trustee signatures and notarization when required. We often advise clients to gather identification documents, original trust pages for verification, and any corporate or property records related to trust assets. Anticipating trustee questions and institutional requirements helps avoid back-and-forth and speeds acceptance.
Understanding common terms used with a Certification of Trust helps trustees and beneficiaries navigate trust administration. Terms include trustee, settlor, trust instrument, beneficiary, successor trustee, powers of trustee, revocable trust, irrevocable trust, and notarization. Each term has a specific role in how authority is documented and conveyed to third parties. Clarifying these concepts reduces miscommunication when presenting a Certification of Trust to banks, title companies, or other institutions. This section explains each term in plain language so clients can confidently provide the documentation institutions request without inadvertently disclosing private trust provisions.
The trustee is the person or entity authorized under the trust document to manage trust assets, make distributions, and carry out the terms of the trust. The trustee holds legal title to trust property for the benefit of the beneficiaries and must act according to the instructions in the trust and applicable California law. When presenting a Certification of Trust, the trustee’s identity and signature often serve as the primary evidence of authority. Trustees should be prepared to show identification and, when necessary, provide a notarized Certification to confirm their authority to third parties such as banks and title companies.
A Certification of Trust is a short document that confirms the existence of the trust and the trustee’s authority without disclosing detailed trust provisions. It typically includes the trust name and date, names of current trustees, and language summarizing trustee powers. The form is intended to satisfy third-party requests for proof of authority while protecting sensitive trust details like beneficiary allocations. Properly drafted Certifications follow statutory guidelines and include signer attestations or notarization if requested by a financial institution or title company.
The settlor, also called the grantor, is the person who created the trust and transferred assets into it. The settlor establishes the trust’s terms, designates beneficiaries, and typically names initial trustees. When the settlor is alive and the trust is revocable, the settlor often retains certain powers. In the context of a Certification of Trust, the settlor’s identity and date of the trust may be included to verify the document’s authenticity, but detailed provisions established by the settlor are not disclosed in the Certification itself.
A successor trustee is the person or entity designated in the trust instrument to take over administration of the trust when the original trustee cannot serve. Successor trustees step into the role to manage assets, settle affairs, and distribute trust property according to the trust’s instructions. A Certification of Trust often names successor trustees if their authority is relevant to ongoing transactions, and identifying successors helps institutions recognize who may lawfully act on behalf of the trust in different circumstances.
When handling trust transactions, trustees may face a choice between providing a limited disclosure like a Certification of Trust or sharing the full trust instrument. A Certification reduces exposure of private terms while typically meeting institutional needs. Full disclosure may be necessary in litigation, contested matters, or when a third party requests proof of specific provisions. Deciding which option to use depends on the situation, the receiving institution’s policies, and the risk of revealing sensitive details. Our approach evaluates each transaction to determine whether limited documentation will suffice or if fuller disclosure is warranted to achieve the client’s objectives.
A Certification of Trust commonly suffices for routine banking tasks, including accessing trust bank accounts, updating account signers, and transferring funds to carry out trustee duties. Financial institutions often accept a properly executed Certification together with identification and trustee signatures to verify authority without requiring the full trust document. This limited approach helps protect beneficiary privacy and streamlines routine administration. Trustees should confirm a bank’s specific acceptance requirements in advance to avoid delays, as some institutions request notarization or an institutional form in addition to the Certification itself.
For many real estate closings and title transfers, a Certification of Trust can confirm a trustee’s authority to sell, encumber, or convey property held in trust. Title companies and escrow officers often accept a Certification that identifies the trustee and summarizes trust powers, thereby avoiding the need to review the trust’s full terms. Using a Certification in these transactions keeps the trust’s private distribution provisions confidential while allowing the closing to proceed. It remains important to include any requested notarization or evidence of authority to match the title company’s procedures.
When there is a dispute over trustee authority, beneficiary rights, or the validity of trust provisions, a fuller review of the trust instrument and additional legal steps may be required. Contested matters may involve petitions to the court, accountings, or actions to clarify trustee powers. A Certification of Trust will not resolve disputes about interpretation or conflicts among interested parties. In such situations, legal services that analyze the trust, communicate with opposing parties, and, if necessary, file appropriate petitions become important to protect the interests of trustees and beneficiaries and to obtain clear direction from a court when facts are contested.
Complex transfers of real estate, retirement accounts, or business interests may require additional documentation beyond a Certification of Trust to address title issues, beneficiary designations, or tax consequences. Certain transfers trigger reporting obligations or require specialized conveyancing documentation to ensure the transaction complies with California law and federal tax rules. In such cases, comprehensive legal support helps coordinate with lenders, title companies, and tax advisors, prepare necessary instruments like assignments or trust modifications, and ensure transfers are executed correctly to avoid unintended consequences.
Taking a comprehensive approach to trust documentation increases the likelihood institutions will accept trustee actions promptly. Preparing a clear Certification of Trust alongside complementary documents such as a Pour-Over Will, Power of Attorney, or Certification of Trust for real property reduces administrative friction. This preparedness helps trustees manage accounts, complete closings, and protect assets for beneficiaries. Thoughtful drafting anticipates common institutional questions and provides the language and evidentiary support that banks and title companies look for when verifying trustee authority.
A comprehensive approach also protects family privacy by limiting the disclosure of sensitive trust provisions while ensuring that trustees have the documentation needed to carry out their responsibilities. Coordinating trust-related documents and confirming the availability of notarized signatures, identification, and any required acknowledgement reduces delays. For families with multiple assets or out-of-state institutions, a consistent set of documents helps trustees present a unified record of authority, facilitating smoother administration and greater confidence that transactions will proceed without unnecessary hold-ups.
When a Certification of Trust is carefully drafted, financial institutions often accept trustee instructions more quickly. The concise nature of a Certification, combined with clear trustee identification and appropriate acknowledgements, helps bankers and account officers confirm that the person acting has the legal authority to manage the trust property. This reduces back-and-forth inquiries, limits the need to provide the full trust instrument, and facilitates faster account transactions or modifications. Preparing the right documents in advance helps trustees avoid delays during time-sensitive financial matters.
A major advantage of relying on a Certification rather than the full trust document is preserving beneficiary privacy. The Certification includes only the trust information necessary for third-party verification and omits sensitive provisions like distribution amounts or identity of all beneficiaries. This limited disclosure protects family confidentiality while allowing trustees to perform essential duties. Maintaining privacy is especially important when dealing with public transactions such as real estate transfers, where unnecessary disclosure could reveal family assets or arrangements.
Before presenting a Certification of Trust, contact the bank, title company, or other institution to confirm its specific acceptance standards. Institutions sometimes require notarization, corporate resolutions if a corporate trustee is involved, or particular wording to confirm that certain powers exist. Gathering these details in advance prevents last-minute delays and ensures the Certification includes the precise language institutions expect. A short phone call or email to the receiving party can save multiple trips and clarify whether additional documentation, such as identification or a certified copy of the trust’s signature page, will be needed.
Maintaining an up-to-date record of successor trustees and any changes to trustee appointments helps when someone new needs to act for the trust. Institutions frequently ask for documentation showing the current trustee and any prior trustees whose signatures may appear on legacy documents. Regularly updating trust records and ensuring the Certification of Trust reflects current trustee appointments prevents confusion when transfers or disbursements are needed. Keeping a single organized file with the trust document, Certification, and related instruments facilitates efficient administration when trustee transitions occur.
Preparing a Certification of Trust is often a practical step when trustees need to manage accounts, convey property, or interact with institutions that request proof of authority. The Certification reduces the need to disclose the full trust instrument, protecting privacy while allowing trustees to take necessary actions. It is particularly useful after the settlor’s death or when successor trustees step in, as it provides a concise statement of authority that banks and title companies can readily review. For families seeking to minimize administrative friction, adding a Certification to the trust portfolio is a prudent choice.
Another reason to consider this service is to prepare for foreseeable events such as property sales, estate administration, or financial account changes. A pre-drafted and notarized Certification can expedite closings and transfers when timetables are tight, avoiding delays that arise when institutions request additional proof. Proactively creating a Certification of Trust reduces stress for trustees and beneficiaries during sensitive times and helps ensure that trust assets are managed and transferred according to the trust terms without unnecessary public disclosure of private family arrangements.
Typical circumstances that prompt the need for a Certification of Trust include real estate closings, accessing trust bank accounts, transferring brokerage accounts, and changing title on vehicles or other registered assets. Financial institutions and escrow companies commonly request a Certification to confirm the trustee’s authority to act without reviewing the entire trust. Additionally, successor trustees often present a Certification after the settlor’s passing to demonstrate their ability to manage and distribute assets. Preparing this document ahead of time reduces friction in those routine yet important situations.
When a trust holds real property, title companies and lenders usually require documentation to show who can execute deeds or mortgage documents on behalf of the trust. A properly worded Certification of Trust can confirm the trustee’s authority for a sale, refinance, or transfer without exposing private distribution terms. Providing the Certification along with any requested notarization and identification helps escrow officers move forward with closing procedures. Advance coordination with the title company about their document format preferences can prevent last-minute complications at closing.
Banks and brokerage firms often ask for a Certification of Trust to verify who may withdraw funds, change beneficiaries, or otherwise manage trust-held accounts. Presenting a clear Certification that names the trustee and summarizes authority allows institutions to recognize lawful actions without needing the full trust instrument. Trustees should be prepared to show valid ID and, if necessary, provide notarized signatures. Having the Certification ready facilitates routine administration such as bill payments, investment decisions, and transfers required to carry out the trustee’s obligations efficiently.
Transferring titles for vehicles, boats, or other registered assets held in trust may require a Certification to confirm the trustee’s authority to sign title documents. Motor vehicle departments and registration agencies sometimes have specific forms or wording they accept, so trustees should verify requirements before visiting an agency. Including clear identification of the trustee and, where appropriate, the successor trustee in the Certification simplifies the transfer process and avoids unnecessary disclosure of the trust’s private details. Preparing the Certification in advance helps trustees complete registrations efficiently.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides local assistance to Brisbane residents preparing Certifications of Trust and related estate documents. We work with trustees to review trust instruments, identify necessary information for a Certification, and prepare notarized documents in formats that align with institutional expectations. Our office helps gather supporting identification, coordinate with banks or title companies when needed, and advise trustees about any additional documentation that may be requested. Having local counsel available simplifies logistics and helps trustees move transactions forward efficiently.
Our firm focuses on practical solutions for trust administration, including preparing documents that institutions will accept with minimal delay. We help trustees anticipate common requests from banks, title companies, and escrow officers, and we draft Certifications that clearly articulate the trustee’s authority while protecting sensitive trust terms. Clients appreciate direct communication and steady guidance during administrative tasks like property closings, account transfers, and title updates. We aim to reduce friction in transactions so trustees can carry out their duties with confidence and clarity.
We assist with assembling a complete set of trust-related documents such as Pour-Over Wills, Powers of Attorney, HIPAA Authorizations, and Certifications of Trust. Coordinating these documents ensures institutions have what they need and trustees can act without repeated requests for additional information. When additional steps are needed, such as recording a Certification or preparing trust modification documents, we provide clear options and explain potential outcomes. Our goal is to offer practical, locally informed guidance tailored to the needs of Brisbane and broader San Mateo County residents.
Accessible communication is a core part of our service. We discuss the necessary steps, expected timelines, and any costs associated with preparing and executing a Certification of Trust, including notarization or filing needs. For clients managing multiple assets, we help organize documentation and prepare concise Certifications to match institutional preferences. This preparedness reduces the administrative burden on trustees and helps ensure that trust affairs proceed according to the settlor’s wishes while preserving privacy and minimizing unnecessary disclosures.
Our process begins with a review of the trust instrument to confirm trustee appointments and identify any limitations on authority. We then draft a Certification of Trust that succinctly states the trust name and date, identifies current trustees, and outlines the trustee’s signing authority in language tailored to common institutional requirements. Where appropriate, we arrange for notarization and provide guidance on presenting the Certification to banks, title companies, or registration agencies. We also recommend complementary documents to facilitate transactions and reduce the likelihood of additional requests.
In the initial step we review your trust document and collect necessary information such as the trust name and date, names of trustees and successors, and details about trust assets that institutions will inquire about. We confirm whether the trust is revocable or irrevocable and note any limitations on trustee powers that affect third-party acceptance. Gathering supporting identification and signature pages during this phase helps ensure the Certification can be executed and used promptly. This preparation minimizes last-minute surprises during transactions.
Careful review of the trust instrument identifies who currently holds trustee authority and whether any conditions or limits apply. Reviewing signature pages, amendment history, and any recorded deeds helps ensure the Certification accurately reflects the trust’s current status. Confirming successor trustee appointments and prior trustee signatures reduces confusion when institutions request historic documentation. This step is essential for drafting a Certification that will be accepted and for determining whether additional documents or court filings may be necessary to clarify authority.
We assist clients in assembling government-issued identification, signature pages, deeds, account statements, and any corporate documents relevant to trust-held assets. Institutions often require ID and proof of signature for trustees, and having these records ready speeds acceptance of the Certification. For property matters, obtaining the latest title report or deed helps verify trust ownership. Preparing a complete file of supporting materials reduces delays and ensures the Certification of Trust can be used effectively for the intended transaction.
After gathering information, we draft the Certification of Trust using clear, concise language aligned with California practices and the receiving institution’s expectations. The draft includes the trust name and date, current trustee identities, and a brief statement of authority. We review the wording with the trustee and make any necessary adjustments. Once finalized, we arrange for signatures and notarization as required and provide instructions for presenting the Certification to banks, title companies, or public agencies to maximize acceptance and avoid additional requests.
We prepare the Certification so that it addresses typical institutional concerns, including confirmation of trustee authority to real property transactions, account management, and other routine powers. The wording is concise to protect privacy while clear enough to be accepted by banks and title companies. If a particular institution requires specific language or format, we incorporate those requirements into the draft. Tailoring the Certification reduces the risk of rejection and ensures parties accepting the document have the information they need to proceed with confidence.
Once the Certification is finalized, we coordinate signing and any required notarization. Some institutions specify that the Certification be notarized or witnessed, so we arrange for proper execution to meet those standards. After execution, we provide the trustee with certified copies and guidance for delivering the document to banks, escrow, or registration authorities. We also keep a copy in our file and can forward documentation directly to institutions upon request to streamline the process further.
After the Certification is prepared and executed, we assist trustees with follow-through to ensure institutions accept the document and transactions move forward. This may include communicating with bank officers or escrow agents, responding to additional questions, and preparing any supplementary documents such as deeds, assignments, or trust modifications if requested. Providing responsive support during this stage reduces the risk of delays and helps trustees complete closings, transfers, and other trust administration tasks efficiently.
We can communicate directly with banks, title companies, and escrow officers to confirm acceptance of the Certification and to clarify any follow-up requirements. Coordinating with these parties helps avoid misunderstandings and reduces the likelihood of repeated requests for additional documentation. In many cases a brief explanation from counsel that the Certification meets statutory guidelines encourages prompt acceptance, allowing transactions to proceed on schedule and minimizing inconvenience for trustees and beneficiaries.
If an institution requests further documentation, such as proof of prior trustee actions, corporate resolutions, or a recorded affidavit, we advise on the best course and prepare the necessary papers. Handling these follow-up items promptly helps trustees conclude transfers and closings without protracted delays. We also counsel clients on whether a trust amendment or modification is advisable based on the nature of the requested documentation, ensuring that any additional steps are taken thoughtfully and in line with the settlor’s objectives.
A Certification of Trust is a concise document that confirms the trust’s existence, identifies the trust by name and date, and sets forth the authority of current trustees to act on behalf of the trust. It is commonly used when a trustee needs to present proof of authority to a bank, title company, or other institution without disclosing the trust’s complete terms and beneficiary details. The Certification typically includes the identity of the trustee, the trust date, and a statement summarizing trustee powers, which helps third parties accept transactions while preserving privacy. Institutions rely on a Certification to determine whether a trustee may sign documents, manage accounts, or transfer assets held in the trust. Because the Certification limits disclosure, it streamlines common administrative tasks and prevents unnecessary exposure of private provisions. It is important to prepare the Certification in a format that meets the receiving institution’s requirements and to include notarization or related acknowledgements if the institution requests them to confirm signer identity and authority.
No, a Certification of Trust does not replace the full trust document. Rather, it serves as a limited-disclosure summary that provides third parties with sufficient information to accept a trustee’s actions without reviewing detailed trust provisions. The full trust instrument remains the controlling legal document for interpretation, distribution instructions, and resolving disputes. A Certification simply allows trustees to carry out administrative duties while keeping sensitive beneficiary details and distribution terms private. In situations involving contested matters, legal challenges, or requests for specific provisions, the full trust instrument may still be required. It is also possible that certain institutions or legal processes will ask to see particular sections of the trust or request an authenticated copy. Understanding when the full document is necessary helps trustees balance privacy with the need to provide adequate proof for complex or contested transactions.
Whether a Certification of Trust must be notarized depends on the receiving institution’s policies. Many banks, title companies, and governmental agencies prefer or require notarization to confirm the identity of the signing trustee. Notarization provides an added layer of verification that can increase the likelihood the Certification will be accepted without additional questions. When notarization is requested, trustees should sign the Certification in the presence of a notary and provide current identification documents. If an institution has specific formatting or acknowledgement requirements, those should be incorporated into the Certification before execution. Verifying these requirements in advance with the bank or title company prevents last-minute re-signing or re-notarization. We can prepare the Certification to include the appropriate acknowledgements and guide trustees through the notarization process to ensure acceptance.
Yes, a bank or other institution can refuse to accept a Certification of Trust if it does not meet their internal requirements or lacks sufficient verification of the trustee’s authority. Institutions have varying standards, and some prefer to see the full trust instrument or additional supporting documentation such as signature pages, identification, or corporate resolutions. When an institution refuses a Certification, it is usually due to a need for more detail or procedural safeguards unique to that organization. To minimize the risk of refusal, trustees should confirm institutional requirements ahead of time and ensure the Certification includes the specific language or acknowledgements the institution requests. We can assist by tailoring the Certification to address common institutional concerns and by communicating directly with the institution to resolve any additional questions so that the trustee can complete the intended transaction.
Proving a successor trustee’s authority typically involves presenting a copy of the trust instrument showing the successor appointment, the original or copy of the trust signature page if requested, and a Certification of Trust that identifies the successor trustee and states their authority. When the settlor has passed, presenting the death certificate along with these documents may also be necessary for some institutions. Clear documentation demonstrating the succession helps institutions accept the successor’s actions without requiring the full trust instrument in many routine matters. If a successor trustee faces resistance from an institution, additional steps such as obtaining a court order or a formal judicial ruling may be necessary in disputed or unusual circumstances. Preparing a complete and accurate Certification and gathering supporting materials in advance typically resolves most administrative needs related to successor trusteeship without court intervention.
A properly drafted Certification of Trust does not disclose beneficiary details beyond what is necessary to verify that the trust exists and who the trustees are. The Certification is designed to protect privacy by omitting sensitive provisions such as distribution amounts, contingent beneficiary designations, and the trust’s internal terms. This limited disclosure allows trustees to perform administrative tasks while minimizing the public exposure of family or financial arrangements. However, some institutions might request additional information about beneficiaries for compliance or account administration purposes. When that occurs, trustees should consider which details are truly necessary and, if appropriate, provide only the limited information requested. Consulting with counsel helps ensure that privacy is preserved while meeting institutional requirements.
A Certification of Trust prepared under California principles can be presented to institutions outside California, but acceptance depends on the receiving jurisdiction’s rules and the institution’s policies. Some out-of-state institutions may accept a California-style Certification if it clearly verifies trustee authority and includes notarization if required. Others may request a local form, additional confirmations, or authenticated copies of the trust instrument. Verifying the out-of-state institution’s expectations in advance reduces the risk of rejection or requests for further documentation. When dealing with properties or accounts in other states, coordinating with counsel or agents familiar with local requirements is advisable. We can assist in tailoring the Certification or preparing any additional documentation needed to satisfy out-of-state institutions and ensure smooth transactions across jurisdictions.
When presenting a Certification of Trust to a bank or escrow office, trustees should bring valid government-issued identification, the executed Certification of Trust, and any additional supporting documentation the institution requests. Supporting materials might include signature pages, deeds reflecting trust ownership, death certificates if the settlor has passed, or corporate resolutions for corporate trustees. Having these items ready helps the institution verify authenticity and reduces the likelihood of additional requests that could delay the transaction. It is also useful to confirm the institution’s specific format or notarization requirements before the appointment. We provide guidance on what documents to assemble and can coordinate with the receiving institution to clarify expectations. Presenting a complete packet of documents increases the chance that the trustee’s request will be processed promptly and without repeated follow-up.
Yes, a Certification of Trust is commonly used in real estate closings when the property is owned by a trust. Title companies and escrow officers often accept a Certification that confirms the trustee’s authority to sell, refinance, or convey trust property. The Certification avoids disclosing the trust’s private distribution provisions while providing title and escrow professionals the information they need to complete the transaction. It typically accompanies deeds, title reports, and other closing documents to demonstrate lawful authority to sign on behalf of the trust. Different title companies may have specific language or acknowledgement requirements, so confirming expectations before closing is recommended. We can prepare a Certification that aligns with the title company’s standards and coordinate with escrow to ensure the closing moves forward without unnecessary delay, including arranging notarization if required.
Updating a Certification of Trust is necessary whenever trustee information, successor appointments, or trust-related authorities change. To update an existing Certification, review the trust instrument to confirm the current trustee status, draft a revised Certification reflecting the new information, and execute it with the appropriate signatures and notarization. Providing updated Certifications to banks, title companies, and other institutions that previously received the old Certification ensures records remain current and helps prevent confusion when transactions occur in the future. Keeping a master file of executed Certifications and supplying updated copies to institutions as changes occur reduces administrative friction. We can prepare updated Certifications, advise on which institutions should receive them, and assist in delivering the documents to ensure that trustees and institutions have accurate, up-to-date records of who is authorized to act.
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