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What is the Assignment of Personal Property document used for?

This document transfers your personal items into your Living Trust so they can avoid probate and be distributed under the trust’s terms.

Updated over 3 weeks ago

The Assignment of Personal Property is an important document included in your estate plan. It’s used to formally transfer your tangible personal belongings, like furniture, jewelry, clothing, and household items, into your Revocable Living Trust.

This helps ensure that these items are legally part of the trust and do not have to go through probate after your death.

Why This Matters

Without this document, your personal property may be considered part of your general probate estate. By assigning these items to your trust:

  • They are managed and distributed by your Trustee according to your instructions

  • They bypass probate, saving your loved ones time and legal expense

  • Your wishes for how these items are handled are more clearly documented

Key Features of the Assignment of Personal Property

  • Covers all tangible personal property
    This includes items like:

    • Furniture

    • Jewelry

    • Clothing

    • Electronics

    • Tools and other personal belongings

  • Applies to both current and future items
    The document states that it applies to property you currently own and anything you acquire later.

  • Transfers property to your Trust
    The assignment moves ownership from you, personally, to you as Trustee of your Living Trust (and to any Co-Trustees, if applicable).

When Is This Document Used?

You’ll sign this document as part of your Living Trust package. It’s one of several tools that help you "fund" your trust, meaning transferring ownership of your assets into the trust so they’re properly managed according to your estate plan.

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