Guides / How to find out if someone had a trust
How to find out if someone had a trust
Most trusts never go through a court, so there's usually no public record to search.
You find a trust by looking through the person's papers and asking people. Then you rely on the trustee's duty to give notice in many states.
Signs a trust exists
- A binder or folder from an estate planning lawyer.
- A will that leaves everything to a trust. This is often called a pour-over will.
- A house deed or account titled in the name of a trust.
- A statement that says "trustee" after a name.
Who to ask
Ask their lawyer, accountant, financial adviser and the person likely to be trustee. A lawyer may need proof that you're a beneficiary or personal representative.
Trustee notice rules
Many states make a trustee tell beneficiaries when a revocable trust becomes irrevocable at a death. The time limit differs. Maine says 60 days. California requires a formal notice to beneficiaries and heirs. If you think someone is trustee, you can ask them in writing whether a trust exists and whether you're named.
If someone won't answer
Ask a probate or trust lawyer. A lawyer can tell you what your state requires and whether the court can help.
Where this comes from
- Minnesota courts, trusts
- Maine Revised Statutes, 18-B section 813
- California Probate Code section 16061.7
Checked November 6, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. See how we check facts or report a mistake.