Trust Certificates for Michigan Trusts

When someone dies and their assets—such as bank accounts and real estate—are owned by a trust, the trustee will usually need trust certificates to handle everything smoothly and legally.

What Is a Trust Certificate?

A trust certificate (also called a certificate of trust) is a shortened summary of a trust that confirms the trust exists and identifies the trustee and key powers, without revealing all of the private details in the full trust document. Banks, investment firms, and title companies commonly request a trust certificate before allowing a trustee to access accounts, move money, or transfer property.

Why Trust Certificates Matter

Financial Accounts

A trust certificate for financial accounts shows banks and investment firms that:

The trust exists and is in effect.
Who the current trustee is.
That the trustee has authority to act for the trust in managing accounts.

This allows the trustee to safely and legally access, move, or close accounts for the trust, while keeping the family’s private details out of view. It makes managing money after someone passes more straightforward and less intrusive.

Real Estate and Closings

When a house or other real estate is owned by a trust, a trust certificate is typically required before a sale or refinance can be completed. A properly drafted certificate:

Can be recorded with the county Register of Deeds if needed.
Confirms to buyers, title companies, and lenders that the trustee has authority to sign the deed and related documents.
Helps prevent delays or questions at closing.

Getting Help With Trust Certificates

Using properly prepared trust certificates allows the trustee to handle bank accounts, investments, and real estate in line with Michigan law, while protecting family privacy and reducing delays.

If you are a trustee or successor trustee of a Michigan trust and need help preparing trust certificates for financial accounts or real estate, Thomas Legal, PLLC can assist. *No attorney–client relationship is created unless and until we both sign a written engagement agreement.