Common items transferred to a revocable living trust include:
1. Real Estate: Homes, rental properties, or any other type of real estate are often transferred into a trust. This includes both primary residences and vacation homes.
2. Bank Accounts: Checking and savings accounts can be transferred to a trust. This helps in managing finances smoothly after the grantor's death or incapacity.
3. Investments: Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investment accounts are commonly placed in a trust. This includes brokerage accounts and interests in closely-held businesses.
4. Personal Property: Tangible personal property like jewelry, art, collectibles, and vehicles can be included in a trust. This is especially important for items of significant value or sentimental worth.
5. Life Insurance Policies: While life insurance proceeds typically bypass probate, transferring ownership of the policy to a trust can provide more control over how the proceeds are distributed.
6. Retirement Accounts: While less common due to tax implications, some people choose to transfer retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s into a trust under certain circumstances.
7. Business Interests: Ownership interests in businesses, partnerships, or LLCs can be transferred to a trust for continuity and ease of succession planning.
8. Intellectual Property: Copyrights, patents, and trademarks may also be held in a trust, particularly if they generate income or hold significant value.