A Certification of Trust is a concise document that summarizes key details of a living trust without revealing its full terms. It is often used to show trustees’ authority to third parties such as banks, title companies, and financial institutions. For property transfers, account changes, or other transactions that require proof of trust rather than the complete trust instrument, a Certification of Trust simplifies the process while protecting privacy. This page explains what a certification of trust does, when it is appropriate, and how individuals in Lindsay and Tulare County can use this document to manage trust-related transactions smoothly and securely.
At the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman, we help clients understand how a Certification of Trust fits into a broader estate plan. Serving clients in Lindsay and throughout Tulare County, our team assists with preparing the right documents, coordinating with financial institutions, and ensuring the Certification meets legal and administrative requirements. Whether you are updating a trust, transferring assets, or preparing for a trustee change, we provide clear guidance tailored to California rules. Call 408-528-2827 to discuss how a Certification of Trust can support your estate plan and asset administration needs in Lindsay and surrounding communities.
A Certification of Trust streamlines common post-creation tasks by confirming the existence of the trust, the identity of the trustee, and the trustee’s authority without disclosing private trust provisions. This reduces friction when dealing with banks, escrow officers, or title companies who require proof of authority to manage or transfer assets. The document protects confidentiality and speeds administrative actions such as changing account ownership, selling property, or accessing trust assets for trust administration. For trustees and beneficiaries in Lindsay, a properly prepared Certification reduces delays, avoids unnecessary disclosures, and supports smooth handling of trust affairs under California law.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides practical estate planning services from San Jose while assisting clients across California, including Lindsay and Tulare County. Our firm prepares a wide range of trust-related documents, from revocable living trusts and pour-over wills to specialized trusts like irrevocable life insurance trusts and special needs trusts. We focus on clear communication, careful drafting, and coordinating with banks, title companies, and other third parties to ensure trust instruments and certifications function as intended. Clients receive personalized service aimed at protecting privacy, simplifying administration, and supporting long-term asset management goals.
A Certification of Trust is an extraction of essential trust facts used to verify a trustee’s authority without providing the full trust document. In California, state statutes allow for a Certification that lists the trust name, date, settlor, trustee, successor trustee provisions, and a statement of the trustee’s powers. Third parties commonly accept the Certification instead of requesting the entire trust instrument. Preparation requires careful attention to legal form and accuracy to avoid disputes. Working with counsel helps ensure the Certification includes the proper attestations and signatures to satisfy banks, title companies, and other institutions involved in trust administration.
Because the Certification contains only basic identifying and authorization information, it preserves the beneficiaries’ privacy and sensitive terms of the trust while confirming authority for transactions. Trustees use the Certification when opening or closing accounts, transferring real estate, or authorizing disbursements on behalf of the trust. The document must be signed and often notarized to prove authenticity. For Lindsay residents, understanding when and how to use a Certification prevents unnecessary disclosure of trust terms and avoids administrative delays when interacting with local financial institutions or escrow agents.
A Certification of Trust is a formal written statement, typically two to three pages, that certifies the trust exists and names the current trustee and successor trustees. It lists the trustee’s powers relevant to transactions and may indicate whether the trust has been revoked or amended. The Certification does not include dispositive provisions such as who receives assets, thereby protecting privacy. In practice, banks and title companies rely on this document to confirm authority for account changes, property transfers, and contract signings. Properly drafted, the Certification is a practical tool for routine trust administration while preserving the confidentiality of the trust’s substantive terms.
Preparing a Certification of Trust begins with identifying the trust by legal name and date, naming the settlor, confirming the trustee(s), and stating the trustee’s powers. The Certification should include whether the trust has been revoked or amended and whether any persons other than the trustee must sign for certain transactions. The trustee signs the Certification, and the signature is commonly notarized to verify identity. When submitting the Certification to banks or title companies, additional documentation such as government identification or a copy of the trust signature page may be requested. Careful drafting reduces the chance of pushback and expedites the desired transaction.
Understanding common terms helps trustees and beneficiaries navigate trust administration. Key concepts include settlor, trustee, beneficiary, trust instrument, revocation, amendment, successor trustee, and powers of appointment. A Certification of Trust focuses on identifying facts rather than revealing trust terms. Knowing these terms makes it easier to communicate with financial institutions and to interpret requests for documentation. For example, a trustee must know if institutional policy requires a Certification or a full trust copy. Familiarity with these terms supports clearer decision-making and smoother transactions when managing trust assets in Lindsay and throughout California.
The settlor, also called the grantor, is the individual who creates the trust and transfers assets into it. The settlor establishes the terms of the trust, names the initial trustee, and designates beneficiaries who will receive assets under the trust. In a revocable living trust, the settlor typically retains certain powers over the trust during their lifetime. Understanding the settlor’s role is important because some financial institutions ask whether the settlor is still living or acting in a particular capacity. Clear identification of the settlor in a Certification of Trust helps confirm the trust’s origin and legitimacy without disclosing the trust’s full contents.
A trustee is the person or institution responsible for managing trust assets in accordance with the trust’s terms and applicable law. Trustees have fiduciary duties to manage, invest, and distribute trust property for the benefit of beneficiaries. A Certification of Trust names the trustee and, where relevant, successor trustees who may act if the initial trustee cannot. Financial institutions rely on this identification to confirm who has the power to access accounts, transfer title, or perform other administrative acts. Trustees should keep clear records and ensure that any Certification accurately reflects current authority and status to avoid disputes.
A beneficiary is an individual, organization, or entity entitled to receive benefits from a trust under its terms. Beneficiaries may have present or future interests in trust assets depending on the trust provisions. The Certification of Trust intentionally omits dispositive language that specifies how assets are distributed to beneficiaries to protect their privacy. However, knowing who the beneficiaries are and how distributions are structured can be important for trustees when making fiduciary decisions and coordinating with professionals who may assist with tax filings, asset management, or trust administration tasks.
A successor trustee is a designated individual or institution who takes over trust administration if the initial trustee dies, resigns, or becomes incapacitated. The Certification of Trust often indicates the chain of successor trustees and clarifies their authority to manage or distribute assets. It may also summarize the powers granted to the trustee, such as authority to sell real estate, manage investments, or sign contracts on behalf of the trust. Accurate identification of successor trustees in the Certification helps ensure continuity of administration and reduces interruptions when third parties require proof of authority.
When interacting with third parties, trustees may be asked for varying levels of documentation. A full copy of the trust shows all provisions and distribution terms, while a Certification of Trust provides a narrower, privacy-preserving summary of essential facts. Some institutions insist on a full copy for certain transactions, but many accept a properly prepared Certification together with a signature and notarization. Choosing between the two depends on the institution’s policies, the type of transaction, and the trustee’s need for confidentiality. Evaluating the tradeoffs ahead of time helps trustees prepare the correct documents and avoid delays.
A Certification of Trust is often sufficient for routine banking tasks such as changing account ownership, establishing trust accounts, or accessing funds to pay bills. Many banks accept a Certification to confirm the trustee’s authority because it identifies the trustee and the trust without revealing private distribution details. Using a Certification reduces the need to disclose the trust instrument and protects beneficiary privacy. Trustees should confirm the bank’s documentation requirements in advance and be prepared to provide identification and notarized signatures along with the Certification to complete transactions smoothly.
Escrow companies and title companies frequently accept a Certification of Trust when a trustee needs to convey or encumber real property held in trust. The Certification confirms the trustee’s right to act while keeping the trust’s distribution provisions confidential. That said, title insurers may have specific requirements, and some transactions may require a full trust copy for underwriting purposes. Communicating with escrow and title professionals early clarifies whether a Certification will suffice or whether supplemental documentation is necessary to complete the transfer without unexpected delays.
A comprehensive approach is advisable when trusts hold complex assets such as business interests, multiple real properties, or retirement accounts, or when there is disagreement over trustee authority. In such situations, a full review of the trust document ensures the trustee’s actions comply with the trust terms and state law. Comprehensive services include review and possible amendment of trust provisions, coordination with financial advisors, and ensuring proper titling of significant assets. This thorough approach helps prevent disputes and ensures continuity of management across a diverse portfolio of trust assets.
Some legal situations or institutional requests may require a full trust copy or even court involvement, such as probate-adjacent matters, litigation, or title insurance underwriting for certain properties. When a full disclosure is mandated, a comprehensive review helps ensure that the complete trust instrument is accurate, up to date, and properly executed. Comprehensive services also include preparing supporting documents like a Certification of Trust, a General Assignment of Assets to Trust, or petitions to modify or confirm trust provisions where appropriate to meet legal or administrative requirements.
A comprehensive approach to trust documentation ensures consistency among all estate planning instruments and reduces the likelihood of administrative complications. When trust documents, certifications, and supporting forms are reviewed together, trustees can act confidently and third parties are less likely to request further proof. This approach helps preserve asset continuity, maintain privacy where possible, and anticipate institutional requirements before transactions are initiated. For families in Lindsay and Tulare County, a thorough review can save time and prevent disputes by aligning the trust with current assets and the client’s overall estate planning goals.
Another benefit is that a comprehensive review identifies gaps such as outdated beneficiary designations, improperly titled assets, or missing successor nominations. Addressing these issues proactively reduces the risk of asset mismanagement or unnecessary court involvement later. A cohesive plan also eases transitions for successor trustees and caregivers, particularly when combined with documents like advance health care directives, financial powers of attorney, and guardianship nominations. Thorough planning helps families maintain control and clarity regarding asset distribution and fiduciary authority.
When trust documents and certifications are prepared and reviewed together, trustees are less likely to encounter last-minute requests for additional paperwork from banks or escrow agents. This proactive coordination speeds transactions such as account transfers, property sales, and beneficiary distributions. Preparedness can prevent administrative holds or rejections that arise from inconsistencies or missing signatures. By anticipating institutional requirements, trustees can complete necessary notarizations and gather identification in advance, making routine transactions more efficient and less stressful for all parties involved.
A Certification of Trust allows a trustee to demonstrate authority while keeping the trust’s detailed disposition terms private. A comprehensive strategy balances the need to show proof of authority with protecting sensitive information about beneficiaries and distributions. Coordinating the Certification with related estate planning documents ensures that only the necessary facts are disclosed to third parties. This selective disclosure reduces risks associated with revealing fiduciary arrangements and helps maintain family privacy during transactions involving accounts, real property, and other trust assets.
Before preparing a Certification of Trust, check the receiving party’s documentation requirements so you prepare the correct form and supporting materials. Financial institutions and title companies vary in what they will accept; some may ask for a notarized Certification and government identification, while others might require a full trust copy or a signature page. Confirming requirements in advance saves time and avoids repeated trips to the bank or escrow office. Early coordination also clarifies whether successor trustee documentation or additional certifications are necessary to complete the transaction.
When submitting a Certification of Trust, include supporting materials commonly requested by third parties, such as a government-issued ID and a notarized signature page. For certain transactions, a bank or title company may also request a copy of the trust signature page or a certification of trust in a specific form. Including these materials with the initial submission increases the chance the Certification will be accepted and reduces follow-up requests. Thoughtful preparation streamlines interactions and helps trustees complete asset transfers and account changes efficiently.
Preparing a Certification of Trust is appropriate when trustees anticipate interacting with banks, title companies, or other institutions that require proof of authority but do not need to see the trust’s full terms. It is also useful when selling or refinancing property held in trust, changing account ownership to the trust, or managing trust assets following a trustee’s appointment. If preserving the confidentiality of beneficiaries and distribution terms is a priority, a Certification offers a privacy-preserving alternative to disclosing the entire trust document while still enabling necessary administrative actions.
Another common reason to prepare a Certification is to clarify the trustee succession chain and powers of the trustee when multiple successor trustees are named or when the trust grants broad authority. A well-drafted Certification reduces friction during transitions and avoids unnecessary court filings to confirm authority. For families in Lindsay and Tulare County, obtaining a Certification as part of routine estate planning helps trustees act confidently, facilitates transactions with local institutions, and reduces the burden on successors during times of change.
Situations that typically require a Certification of Trust include opening or transferring bank accounts, changing title to real property held in trust, completing escrow for property sales, and authorizing transfers of investment accounts. Trustees also use a Certification when insurance companies or other contractors request proof of authority. Having a Certification prepared in advance reduces delays and clarifies the trustee’s authority, ensuring that financial institutions and service providers have the necessary confirmation to proceed with requested transactions without needing to see sensitive trust provisions.
When a trustee needs to open a bank account in the name of the trust, the bank often requests proof of the trustee’s authority. A Certification of Trust provides the necessary identification of the trust and of the trustee, allowing the bank to accept deposits, issue checks, or provide account services under the trust’s name. Preparing the Certification and confirming any bank-specific form requirements in advance helps ensure the account is opened quickly and that the trustee can manage trust funds without delay.
Real estate transactions involving trust property frequently require documentation proving the trustee’s authority to sign deeds, conveyances, or mortgage documents. A Certification of Trust is a commonly accepted method to establish that authority while preserving the trust’s privacy. Escrow and title companies often use the Certification to confirm the trustee can transfer title. As requirements vary, trustees should consult with the escrow officer and title company early to confirm whether a Certification is sufficient or if additional documentation is needed for the transfer.
Investment firms and custodians may request proof of authority before allowing trustees to change account registrations or to manage investments on behalf of a trust. A Certification of Trust, often accompanied by a signed signature page and identification, allows trustees to make investment decisions, rebalance portfolios, or change account settings in accordance with the trust’s terms. Coordinating with custodians ahead of time ensures trustees know what documentation is required and helps avoid unnecessary delays in managing retirement accounts or other investment holdings held by the trust.
Although based in San Jose, the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman assists clients throughout California, including residents of Lindsay and Tulare County. Our team helps prepare Certifications of Trust, coordiantes with banks and title companies, and advises trustees on completing transactions in compliance with California law. We prioritize clear communication and practical solutions that preserve privacy while validating authority. If you are a trustee or beneficiary in Lindsay and need help preparing or using a Certification of Trust, contact our office to discuss how to proceed efficiently and respectfully for your family’s circumstances.
Clients choose the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman for straightforward, practical guidance in trust documentation and administration. We help trustees prepare accurate Certifications of Trust that meet institutional requirements and protect sensitive trust provisions. Our approach emphasizes clear drafting, careful attention to notarization and signatures, and coordination with banks and escrow agents to reduce friction. For clients in Lindsay and nearby areas, we provide responsive communication and reliable follow-through so trustees can complete necessary transactions with confidence and minimal delay.
In addition to preparing Certifications of Trust, we assist with related documents such as revocable living trusts, pour-over wills, financial powers of attorney, and advance health care directives. This integrated approach ensures that all estate planning instruments work together and that trustees have the documentation needed for asset administration. We also advise on issues like trust modification petitions, Heggstad petitions, and general assignments when needed to align assets with the trust’s objectives and the client’s goals under California law.
Our process includes confirming institutional requirements before drafting, preparing notarized signature pages when required, and delivering clear instructions for trustees to present Certifications to banks, title companies, and other third parties. For families in Lindsay, this reduces surprise requests and expedites routine transactions. Contact the office at 408-528-2827 for a consultation to determine whether a Certification of Trust or a more comprehensive document review is appropriate for your situation.
Our process begins with an initial intake to understand the trust’s current status, trustee identity, and the specific transaction or institution involved. We confirm the receiving party’s documentation requirements, prepare the Certification to include required facts and attestations, and coordinate any necessary notarizations. We review the trust document to ensure the Certification aligns with current provisions and advise on any additional steps such as a General Assignment of Assets to Trust or a Certification of Trust signature page. The goal is to produce a Certification that third parties will accept without needing the full trust instrument.
The first step is to review the trust and confirm the precise documentation required by the bank, title company, or other third party. This includes identifying trustee names, successor trustee provisions, and any limitations on trustee authority. Verifying institutional policies early prevents delays. We also identify whether additional documents such as a signature page, notarized declarations, or a power of attorney will be needed. This preparatory stage ensures the Certification will be drafted to meet the receiving party’s standards and the trustee can act without unnecessary follow-up requests.
We examine the trust document to ensure the Certification reflects the most current version and accurately identifies trustees and successor trustees. This review confirms the trust remains in effect and uncovers any amendments or revocations that might affect trustee authority. Carefully matching the Certification to the trust eliminates inconsistencies that could cause third parties to reject the document. We also check for provisions that restrict certain transactions or require co-trustee signatures, so trustees are aware of any constraints before attempting transactions with banks or escrow companies.
We contact the institution or review its policies to determine what they will accept in lieu of a full trust copy. Some banks and title insurers have specific forms or require particular language in the Certification. Learning these requirements early allows us to tailor the Certification accordingly and assemble supporting documents such as IDs or notarized signature pages. This coordination reduces the need for repeated submissions and clarifies the evidence institutions will accept to confirm the trustee’s authority to act on behalf of the trust.
After confirming requirements, we draft the Certification of Trust with clear, accurate statements regarding the trust’s identity, trustee authority, and successor provisions. The Certification is prepared to meet the receiving party’s format and includes any requisite attestation language. Trustees sign the Certification, and when necessary we coordinate notarization to provide an additional layer of verification. Proper execution and notarization improve the likelihood that the Certification will be accepted by banks, title companies, and other institutions handling trust transactions.
Drafting the Certification involves including the trust’s legal name, formation date, settlor, trustee identities, and a statement confirming the trustee’s authority. We avoid including dispositive terms but ensure the Certification identifies the powers the trustee may exercise for transactions. The document is phrased to comply with California statute and the receiving institution’s preferences. Careful wording reduces ambiguity for third parties and supports timely acceptance during banking, escrow, or title transactions.
Once the Certification is finalized, the trustee signs the document in the presence of a notary public when notarization is required by the receiving institution. We advise trustees on proper execution, obtaining necessary identification, and gathering any additional supporting materials. Notarization verifies the trustee’s signature and helps satisfy institutional verification procedures. Properly executed, the Certification is ready for presentation to banks, escrow agents, or title companies to facilitate the intended transaction without unnecessary follow-up.
After execution, we assist with submitting the Certification and any supporting documents to the requesting institution and provide follow-up if additional information is requested. This might include responding to questions, providing a trustee’s identification, or arranging for a phone call between our office and the institution to confirm authenticity. We remain available to resolve unexpected requests or to take further steps such as preparing supplementary documentation, filing petitions, or coordinating transfers to ensure the transaction is completed efficiently and in accordance with trust terms and California law.
When submitting the Certification to a bank, title company, or escrow agent, we ensure that all required attachments are included and that the document has been properly executed and notarized if necessary. Including a cover letter that explains the purpose of the Certification and references any institutional form requirements can facilitate acceptance. We provide clear instructions to trustees regarding whom to contact at the institution and how to present the Certification, minimizing initial resistance and helping transactions proceed without additional document requests.
If the receiving party requests additional information, our office coordinates the response to avoid delays. Common follow-up requests include verification of trustee signatures, additional ID, or a copy of the trust signature page. We work with trustees to provide appropriate documentation while protecting sensitive trust provisions when possible. Timely and organized follow-up helps maintain transaction momentum and ensures that the trustee can complete necessary transfers, account changes, or other actions on behalf of the trust.
A Certification of Trust is a concise document that identifies the trust, names the trustee and successor trustees, and summarizes the trustee’s authority for specified transactions. It is designed to confirm the trustee’s capacity to act without disclosing private terms related to beneficiary distributions. Institutions like banks and escrow companies commonly accept a Certification because it provides the information they need to proceed with transactions while preserving the confidentiality of the trust instrument. For trustees, the Certification offers a practical means to manage trust affairs in everyday situations. The Certification is particularly useful for routine matters such as establishing trust accounts, changing account registrations, or demonstrating authority in escrow transactions. It typically includes statements about the trust’s existence, trust date, settlor, and a declaration that the trustee has the power to conduct specified actions. To be effective, the Certification must be accurate and properly executed, and some institutions may request notarization or additional identification to verify the trustee’s signature and identity.
Whether a bank will accept a Certification of Trust instead of a full trust copy depends on the bank’s internal policies and the nature of the transaction. Many banks routinely accept a Certification for opening accounts, changing signers, or managing funds since it confirms the trustee’s identity and authority without exposing the trust’s distribution terms. However, a few institutions may insist on seeing a full copy for larger or more unusual transactions or to comply with internal underwriting standards. To avoid delays, contact the bank in advance to learn its specific requirements and any preferred formats. Preparing a Certification that includes the necessary attestations and arranging notarization when requested increases the likelihood of acceptance. If a bank requests a full trust copy, discuss the reason and consider providing only the necessary pages, such as the signature page, while seeking to preserve the privacy of dispositive provisions.
Yes, a Certification of Trust is often used to facilitate transfers of real estate held in a trust. Escrow and title companies frequently accept a Certification to verify that the trustee has the authority to convey property without exposing the trust’s full terms. This practice helps maintain confidentiality while providing the assurance needed to record deeds or complete escrows. The Certification should clearly state the trustee’s authority to transfer real property and include any necessary attestations required by the title company or escrow agent. That said, title insurers may have differing underwriting requirements, and certain transactions can trigger a request for a full trust copy for clearance. To avoid surprises, consult with the escrow officer and title company early to confirm whether a Certification will suffice or if the full document will be required for underwriting purposes. Preparing the Certification to meet known institutional standards minimizes the chance of further requests.
The trustee or acting trustee signs the Certification of Trust to attest to the facts stated in the document. When there are multiple trustees, the trust instrument’s provisions determine whether one trustee may act alone or if co-trustee signatures are required. The signature is commonly notarized to provide additional verification of the trustee’s identity and signature authenticity. Notarization is often requested by banks and title companies as part of their verification process. If the trustee is unavailable, a successor trustee named in the trust can sign once they have formally assumed their role in accordance with the trust’s terms. When preparing the Certification, ensure the signatory’s identity is clear and that notarization and any supporting identification documents are prepared to satisfy institutional requests and prevent delays in completing trust transactions.
A Certification of Trust purposely excludes detailed information about beneficiaries and distribution terms to protect privacy. The document provides only the essential identifying information and statements about the trustee’s authority. By withholding dispositive provisions, the Certification allows trustees to prove authority without revealing how assets will be distributed, which is often a primary concern for families seeking confidentiality. Although the Certification does not disclose beneficiary specifics, some transactions or institutions may ask for additional documentation in limited circumstances. If a receiving party insists on seeing more information, discuss alternatives such as providing the trust signature page or working with the institution to limit disclosure while meeting their verification needs. The goal is to balance privacy with the evidence required for the requested transaction.
If a title company requests a full trust copy, first inquire why the full document is necessary for their underwriting or transaction. Title insurers sometimes require a complete trust instrument to confirm ownership, verify signing authority, or assess potential issues that could affect title. Understanding the specific concern allows you to address it directly, which may avoid producing the full document. In some cases, providing the trust signature page or a notarized Certification of Trust with tailored language may satisfy the title company. If the title company maintains that a full trust copy is required, discuss protective measures such as providing a redacted copy that omits dispositive provisions while including the pages necessary to confirm authority and execution. Your legal advisor can also communicate with the title company to narrow the scope of the requested disclosure while preserving beneficiary privacy whenever possible.
A Certification of Trust should be updated whenever there is a change that affects the facts stated in the Certification, such as a new trustee appointment, resignation, death, or amendment that alters trustee authority. Keeping the Certification accurate prevents institutions from relying on outdated information that could lead to transaction delays or disputes. Even absent a change, reviewing trust documentation periodically ensures continued alignment with current assets and institutional requirements. As a practical matter, consider updating the Certification after any significant modification to the trust instrument, after the appointment of a successor trustee, or when preparing for transactions that require verification. Timely updates give trustees the confidence to act and reduce the likelihood that third parties will request additional clarifying documentation.
A successor trustee can use a Certification of Trust once they have legally assumed their role according to the trust’s terms. The Certification should reflect the current trustee information, including the successor trustee’s name and authority. Institutions will typically require proof that the successor has the power to act, which can be established by the Certification together with any necessary documentation such as the trustee’s ID and evidence of the triggering event that caused succession, such as a death certificate or resignation letter. If the transition to the successor role is recent, it may be helpful to provide the trust instrument’s relevant appointment provision or other supporting evidence demonstrating the succession process. Confirming institutional requirements in advance ensures the successor trustee can access trust assets and perform required duties without unnecessary obstacles.
Using a Certification of Trust offers privacy and efficiency benefits, but there are risks if the document is inaccurate or incomplete. An improperly prepared Certification can be rejected by an institution or lead to disputes over authority. Ensuring the Certification accurately reflects current trustee names, dates, and powers reduces the chance of rejection. Notarization and proper identification further strengthen the document’s acceptance by third parties. Another potential risk is relying on a Certification when a receiving party requires a full trust copy for legal or underwriting reasons. Confirming requirements ahead of time and being prepared to provide additional documentation when legitimately requested mitigates these risks and helps trustees proceed with confidence while protecting sensitive trust provisions.
To get started with a Certification of Trust, gather the trust document, the trust date, the names of the trustee and successor trustees, and any amendments that may affect trustee authority. Also assemble forms of identification for the trustee and identify the institution involved in the transaction so their documentation preferences can be confirmed. This preparation helps streamline the drafting and execution process and reduces the likelihood of follow-up requests. Contact the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman to discuss the facts of your trust and the intended transaction. We will review the trust, confirm third-party requirements, draft a properly tailored Certification, and assist with notarization and submission to ensure the trustee’s authority is recognized while protecting privacy and minimizing administrative delay.
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