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Home→Tools→Trustee Checklist→Tennessee

What Are My Duties as Trustee in Tennessee?

Step-by-step guide for administering a trust after the grantor passes away. Answer a few questions to get a personalized checklist for your situation.

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Answer a few questions to get a personalized checklist for your situation.

West Dakota: $999,999 (99.9%)East Montana: $888,888 (88.8%)

This checklist provides general guidance for trust administration. Requirements vary by state and trust document. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Immediate priorities for a successor trustee in Tennessee include obtaining certified death certificates, locating the original trust document, securing trust assets, and notifying beneficiaries. An EIN is required since the trust becomes irrevocable after the grantor's death.

Tennessee requires successor trustees to notify beneficiaries within 60 days of the grantor's death. Written notice is required. This notice must include the trustee's identity and information about the beneficiary's interest.

Yes. Tennessee has adopted the Uniform Trust Code, which standardizes trust administration rules including trustee duties, beneficiary rights, and modification procedures.

In Tennessee, custodial accounts under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) terminate when the minor reaches age 21, though the transferor can specify an age up to 25. Trustees managing inherited custodial accounts follow this timeline.

What Are My Duties as Trustee in Tennessee?

As a successor trustee in Tennessee, you have fiduciary duties to manage trust assets prudently and distribute them according to the trust terms. Unlike probate, trust administration is private and does not require court involvement.

Tennessee law requires you to notify qualified beneficiaries of your trusteeship. This notice typically must be sent within 60 days of the grantor's death and include your contact information and the beneficiary's right to request trust information.

You'll need to obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS since the trust becomes irrevocable after the grantor's death. This is required to open trust bank accounts and file tax returns.

Keep detailed records of all transactions, communications, and decisions. Beneficiaries have the right to request accountings, and proper documentation protects you from liability claims.

County-Specific Guides in Tennessee

Get a trustee checklist customized for your county's probate court.

Anderson CountyBedford CountyBenton CountyBledsoe CountyBlount CountyBradley CountyCampbell CountyCannon CountyCarroll CountyCarter CountyCheatham CountyChester CountyClaiborne CountyClay CountyCocke CountyCoffee CountyCrockett CountyCumberland CountyDavidson CountyDecatur County

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Tennessee Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering Tennessee probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.