What are the duties of a trustee?

In Washington, a trustee is a person who is responsible for carrying out the instructions laid out in a decedent’s (deceased person’s) will. The trustee is responsible for managing and distributing the estate of the decedent. A trustee is also responsible for protecting the estate’s assets and ensuring that they are used in accordance with the decedent’s wishes. The duties of a trustee can vary based on the terms of the will and the trustee’s role. Generally, a trustee will need to take several steps to manage the estate. This includes locating the assets of the estate, protecting those assets from loss or damage, and paying any creditors or taxes owed. The trustee also has duties related to distributing the estate, which includes determining who will receive the estate’s assets, and when and how those assets will be distributed. It may be necessary for the trustee to negotiate with beneficiaries or other parties involved in the estate distribution. A trustee must also comply with the state’s probate laws, including filing any appropriate documents with the court or state. They must also keep accurate records of the estate’s finances and assets, as well as any other required documents. Finally, a trustee must act in the best interests of the estate. This includes taking all reasonable steps to ensure that the estate’s assets are used for the purposes dictated in the will. A trustee must also act with good faith and loyalty to the estate and its beneficiaries.

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