When you want a trust to start working while you're still alive, it's often called a settlement. To make this happen, you need a special document known as a trust deed. This is where you write down all the rules for the trust, like a guidebook that explains who does what and when.
What's in the trust deed? First off, it names the trustees. These are the people you pick to look after the assets you're putting into the trust. It's their job to manage everything according to your rules. Next, the deed identifies the beneficiaries. These are the people who will eventually benefit from what's in the trust, whether it's money, property or anything else.
The trust deed also lays out any rules or conditions that have to be followed. For example, you might state that a beneficiary has to reach a certain age before they can receive their share. Or, you might have rules for the trustees about how they should invest the money in the trust.
Another key part is detailing how and when the trust will end. Maybe it closes when a beneficiary hits a certain age or milestone, or perhaps you set a specific date in the future. This part helps everyone know the time frame they're working within.