What happens if I forget to fund my trust?

If assets are left outside the trust and do not have a beneficiary designation or transfer-on-death instruction, probate may be needed.

This does not mean the trust failed completely, but it may mean your family has extra work to do. The more assets that are properly coordinated with the trust, the smoother things usually are after death.

Trust funding is not glamorous, but it is where a lot of estate plans either work well or become frustrating.

*Reviewed by Estate Planning Attorney Casey Connealy, Partner at Gaughan & Connealy Estate Planning Attorneys on June 23, 2026.