TRUST ADMINISTRATION · WILDOMAR, CA
Trust administration in Wildomar, CA
Being named successor trustee is a sign of trust. It can also feel like a lot. We guide trustees in Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Temecula, Menifee, and across Riverside County through each step, in plain English.
What trust administration is
When the person who created a living trust passes away, the successor trustee takes over. Trust administration is the work of settling that trust.
It usually happens outside of court. But California law still sets rules the trustee must follow.
What a successor trustee does
- Follows the instructions in the trust
- Keeps the trust property safe
- Treats every beneficiary fairly and keeps them informed
- Keeps trust money separate and keeps clear records
- Pays valid debts and expenses
- Distributes the property as the trust says
The common steps
- 1
Gather the documents
Find the trust, any amendments, the will, and the death certificate.
- 2
Give the required notice
California law requires the trustee to send notice to beneficiaries and heirs, generally within 60 days.
- 3
Find and value the property
List the trust assets and find out what each one is worth.
- 4
Pay debts and expenses
Pay valid bills and the costs of running the trust.
- 5
Keep beneficiaries informed
Share updates and, when needed, an accounting of what came in and what went out.
- 6
Distribute the property
Pass the property to the beneficiaries as the trust directs.
How fees work
Trust administration does not follow the probate fee schedule set by law. Trust administration fees depend on the situation, so we discuss them with you at your consultation.
We explain fees clearly at your first meeting.
Frequently asked questions
- Does a trust have to go through probate?
- Property that was properly placed in a living trust usually does not go through probate. The successor trustee settles it outside of court.
- I was named successor trustee. What should I do first?
- Find the trust document and a copy of the death certificate. Keep the property safe. Then talk with an attorney about the notice that California law requires.
- How long does trust administration take?
- Many trust administrations take several months to a year or more. It depends on the property, the debts, and how many people are involved.
Serving Wildomar and Riverside County
From our office at 32395 Clinton Keith Rd., Suite A206, in Wildomar, we work with families in Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Temecula, Menifee, and across Riverside County. Meetings are available in the office, by video call, or by phone.
Call (951) 384-0976
Plan with clarity. Protect your family.
Schedule a consultation.This page is general information, not legal advice. Every family's situation is different.