Can I change the terms of a trust?

Generally, a trust can be altered or amended, however, that depends on the type of trust you have. In California, if you have a revocable trust, then the settlor (person who created the trust) is usually the only one who can change the terms of the trust. A revocable trust can be changed, added to or revoked at any time during the life of the settlor, and the terms of the trust can be changed by a written instrument signed by the settlor. On the other hand, an irrevocable trust cannot be changed by the settlor alone. Most of the time, an irrevocable trust requires the consent of the beneficiaries in order to alter the terms of the trust. It’s important to note that a court may be required in order to make changes to an irrevocable trust. It’s important to keep in mind that if you are trying to make changes to a trust, you should always consult with a qualified attorney to ensure that the changes you are making are legally valid and binding. Trusts are complex legal documents and there are a lot of implications with changes to trusts, so it’s best to be informed and get the advice of an experienced attorney.

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