Vital Records

Which vital records do I need when creating a trust?

You'll typically need certified copies of birth certificates for all beneficiaries, marriage certificates if you're married, and divorce decrees if applicable. These documents help establish identities and relationships in your trust. Death certificates become important later when the trust needs to distribute assets. Most states require certified copies rather than photocopies, so plan to request official documents from the vital records office in the state where each event occurred.