Funding a Trust
Why signing trust documents alone may not avoid probate—and what funding means in practice.
← Back to Learning CenterWhat funding means
Funding is the process of retitling assets, updating beneficiary designations, or assigning property so the trust actually owns or controls what you intend.
A trust document that exists only on paper—without funded assets—may not accomplish your goals.
Why an unfunded trust may fail to avoid probate
Assets still titled in your individual name at death generally pass through probate, even if you signed a trust years earlier.
Families are sometimes surprised to learn that the trust was prepared but never funded—a common source of planning gaps.
Common funding steps
Real estate deeds, bank account changes, investment account designations, and business interest assignments are typical funding tasks.
Your participating attorney and PECA materials help identify what should be reviewed after your Trust Package is delivered—not as a substitute for professional title and tax advice.
Ready to begin?
When you are ready, start your Trust Questionnaire in the Client Portal. PECA guides you through preparation, attorney review, and secure delivery of your Trust Package.