Illinois Living Trust Sample

Unlike a will, the contents of a living trust are not a matter of public record. Like most court records, probate files are open to the public.

Updating a beneficiary designation: It supersedes your Will or Trust. The beneficiary designation is a legally binding document that supersedes your Will or Trust; neither will override the person you have named as your beneficiary in a life insurance policy, annuity or retirement account.

Determine the Current Title and Vesting to Your Property. Prepare a Deed. Be Aware of Your Lender and Title Insurance. Prepare a Preliminary Change of Ownership Report. Execute Your Deed. Record Your Deed. Wait for the Deed to be Returned. Keep the Property in the Trust.

Of the trust's existence, the beneficiary's right to request a copy of the trust agreement and right to an account (within 90 days of the trust becoming irrevocable or a change in trusteeship) when a trust becomes irrevocable (within 90 days of the event) appointment of a new trustee (within 90 days of acceptance)

Generally speaking, beneficiaries have a right to see trust documents which set out the terms of the trusts, the identity of the trustees and the assets within the trust as well as the trust deed, any deeds of appointment/retirement and trust accounts.

A trust can be contested for many of the same reasons as a will, including lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, or lack of requisite formalities. The beneficiaries may also challenge the trustee's actions as violating the terms and purpose of the trust.

To transfer real estate (also called real property) into your living trust, you must prepare and sign a new deed, transferring ownership. You can usually fill out a new deed yourself.

Trusts Are Not Public Record. Most states require a last will and testament to be filed with the appropriate state court when the person dies. When this happens, the will becomes a public record for anyone to read. However, trusts aren't recorded.