Although it often goes handinhand with a deed of trust, the promissory note is a separate document. Also, most people who take out a loan to buy a residential property in Utah sign a promissory note and a deed of trust, which is similar to a mortgage.Also, most people who take out a loan to buy a residential property in Utah sign a promissory note and a deed of trust, which is similar to a mortgage. In effect, the trust works as security for the promissory note the borrower's promise to pay the loan back. A trust deed is always used together with a promissory note (also called "prom note") that sets out the amount and terms of the loan. Banks use assignments and endorsements to transfer mortgages, deeds of trust, and promissory notes to other banks. A trustee may also substitute a different trustee for handling foreclosure.