Setting up a trust is more than just a financial or legal process—it's a deeply personal decision that affects your family, legacy, and wealth distribution for years to come.

Here are 5 essential matters to consider before putting pen to paper:

1️⃣ Do You Need a Trust Protector?

While trustees are responsible for managing and distributing the trust, a trust protector acts as a safeguard to oversee them.

A trust protector can:

• Replace a trustee who fails to act properly

• Approve key decisions such as investment changes

• Ensure that the trust continues to reflect your intentions over time

✅ Tip: This is especially useful in long-term or discretionary trusts, or where beneficiaries may challenge decisions.

2️⃣ What Assets Will You Place in the Trust?

Trusts are flexible—but not all assets are suitable or necessary to transfer.

Consider placing:

• Cash or investment accounts

• Insurance policy proceeds

• Properties (rental or inherited)

• Business shares

• Family heirlooms or digital assets

✅ Tip: Think about both financial assets and non-financial legacies—what should be protected, managed, or passed on with care?

3️⃣ Who Are Your Beneficiaries—And What Are Their Needs?

Are your beneficiaries:

• Minor children?

• Elderly or dependent family members?

• Business partners?

• People at risk of mismanaging money?

✅ Tip: You can structure distributions around age, milestones, or needs-based discretion, giving flexibility while safeguarding against misuse.

4️⃣ How Will Distributions Be Made?

Should the trust:

• Pay out a monthly or annual allowance?

• Release funds at specific life events?

• Give the trustee full discretion?

✅ Tip: Consider adding clear guidelines while leaving some flexibility for the trustee to handle unexpected life circumstances.

5️⃣ Who Will Manage the Trust Assets During the Trust Period?

This is often overlooked—but crucial.

Trustees may delegate management to professionals like:

• Fund managers (for investments)

• Property managers (for rental or commercial real estate)

• Business consultants (for shares in a private company)

✅ Tip: Appoint the right experts early to ensure your trust generates income, retains value, and remains efficient.

💬 Final Thought

A well-planned trust isn’t just about transferring assets—it’s about protecting people, avoiding disputes, and carrying out your intentions with dignity.

Make these 5 decisions with care, and your trust will do more than preserve your wealth—it will honour your legacy.

Coming up next:

"How Trusts Supercharge Your Estate Plans"

Using trusts to build a lasting legacy—one that protects your family, reflects your values, and adapts to life’s uncertainties