"This guide shows the reader how to administer a living trust step by step. It discusses how to: decide whether to take on the job of trustee; set up ongoing trusts for surviving spouses, children, or beneficiaries with special needs; invest trust assets; get help from lawyers, financial planners, and other experts; handle taxes and prepare accountings; work effectively with beneficiaries; and distribute trust property. Includes summaries of state laws and a sample trust"-- Provided by publisher.

Includes index.

Should you serve as trustee? -- Thinking like a trustee -- Working with beneficiaries -- The first few months -- Assets that should be in the trust, but aren't -- Life insurance, retirement plans, and other assets outside the trust -- Getting help when you need it -- Managing ongoing trusts -- Investing trust assets -- Dealing with taxes -- Trust accountings -- Terminating the trust.