What Should a Trustee Be Paid in Wisconsin?

Trustee compensation in Wisconsin depends on the type of trustee and the work involved. Family trustees typically receive 0-1% of trust assets annually (or waive fees entirely). Professional trustees charge 0.5-1.5%, while corporate trustees charge 1-2% with annual minimums. For trusts that distribute immediately and close, a one-time fee of 1-3% is typical.

Yes, trustee compensation is taxable income. In Wisconsin, you'll pay federal income tax, Wisconsin state income tax (up to 7.6%), and self-employment tax (15.3%). The calculator above estimates your after-tax amount. The trust can deduct the payment as an administrative expense.

Yes, family members serving as trustees in Wisconsin are entitled to the same compensation as professional trustees. However, many family trustees choose to waive or reduce their fee, especially if they're also beneficiaries. If you accept payment, keep detailed records of your time and duties.

One-time fees apply when a trust distributes all assets and closes (similar to executor work). Annual fees apply when the trust continues for years - like trusts for minor children or special needs beneficiaries. The compensation model depends on your trust's purpose, not Wisconsin law.

It depends on your situation. Trustee compensation is taxable at your regular income rate (plus self-employment tax), while trust distributions to beneficiaries are generally not taxable. If you're both trustee and beneficiary, waiving the fee may save taxes. However, if the trust work is substantial, compensation recognizes your time and effort.

Keep detailed records of time spent on trust duties: investment management, tax filings, beneficiary communications, bill payments, and distributions. Document the complexity of the trust and any special skills you bring. If beneficiaries or courts question your fee, these records help demonstrate that compensation is reasonable for the work performed.