When a loved one dies, particularly a spouse, it’s not just an emotional moment—it’s also a time when significant legal and financial action needs to be taken. One of the most prevalent duties surviving family members have is trust administration.

If you’ve been looking online for “trust administration near me” or you’re not sure what to do when the first spouse passes away, you’re in the right spot. Let’s demystify what this process actually entails, what types of trust administration costs you can anticipate, and how Angelique Friend can guide you through it with transparency and empathy.

What Is Trust Administration

Trust administration is what’s done to manage and divide a trust once a person has died. When a couple creates a revocable living trust, it usually becomes irrevocable (can’t be altered) when the first spouse dies. This sets in motion certain administrative steps.

When the first spouse dies, the trust doesn’t remain idle. It must be updated, funded, and in some cases, divided into separate compartments (such as a Survivor’s Trust and a Decedent’s Trust), depending on how it was initially drafted.

Trust Administration Once the First Spouse Dies

Here’s what usually occurs when the first spouse dies:

✅ Inventory of Assets

The trustee or surviving spouse must outline all properties held in the trust, such as real property, bank deposits, investments, and personal property.

✅ Valuation and Appraisals

Other properties and valuable assets may require professional appraisals to ascertain their worth for tax purposes.

✅ Sub-Trust Funding

In most instances, the initial trust mandates that the assets be split into sub-trusts: one for the surviving spouse and one for the survivor. This process can be complicated and must be documented carefully.

✅ Tax Considerations

While there might not be estate taxes following the first death (gratitude to the unlimited marital deduction), proper trust administration now saves headaches down the road, particularly for beneficiaries.

✅ Distribution Planning

The trustee (usually the surviving spouse) oversees distributions in accordance with the provisions of the trust.

Pro Tip: “Even if you’re the surviving spouse and the only trustee, don’t attempt to do this on your own. Errors made now can have lasting effects on you and your beneficiaries.”

Trust Administration Fees: What Should You Expect

Let’s discuss the nobody wants to ask question: fees. There are costs, yes, but knowing them up front helps you plan—and stay surprised.

Typical Trust Administration Fees Are:

  • Document preparation and review
  • Appraisals and transfers of assets
  • Notary and filing charges
  • Professional assistance (trust consultants, CPAs, financial planners)
  • If you’re using a trust administration service such as Angelique Friend, you can anticipate clear, flat-fee billing or affordable hourly fees, depending on the trust’s complexity. She’s not a lawyer, which keeps costs in check, particularly for families who only require trusted advice and not courtroom representation.

Why Use Angelique Friend for Trust Administration Near You

California-based Angelique Friend focuses on assisting families with trust management, probate assistance, and getting through life’s most sensitive legal situations. Though not an attorney, she has long experience collaborating with lawyers, financial planners, and CPAs to make sure your trust is administered correctly.

How is she different

 Empathetic, straightforward communication

 Trust process explained step by step

 Single-mindedly focused on actual people—not legalese

 Practical, transparent pricing

Whether you’re going through this process following the death of the first spouse, or need someone to guide you through what’s next, Angelique is the type of composed, competent professional you’ll be happy to have at your side.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trust Administration

❓ Do I need trust administration when the first spouse passes away

Yes, particularly if the trust is designed to divide into sub-trusts or needs asset redistributing. Without doing anything, the trust will not be effective in the future.

❓ Can I do trust administration by myself

You can, but it’s easy to miss steps. Having a professional such as Angelique Friend guarantee compliance, prevent errors, and minimize family stress.

❓ How long does the process take

Depending on complexity, trust administration after the passing of the first spouse may take a few weeks to several months.

❓ What if we never updated the trust

Old trusts are the norm. Angelique can assist in reviewing it and suggesting next steps—even if updates are necessary.

Ready for Peace of Mind

If you’re looking for “trust administration near me”, it means you desire clarity, confidence, and compassion. You’ll get all three with Angelique Friend.

Whether you’ve just lost a spouse or are preparing for the future, don’t navigate this process alone. With the right help, trust administration becomes manageable—and even empowering.

 Contact Angelique Friend today to schedule your consultation and start the process with someone who truly cares.