Living trust requirements
Pennsylvania
What you need to create a valid revocable living trust in Pennsylvania.
Notarization
Recommended
Not legally required
Witnesses required
None
No witnesses needed
Community property
No
Online notary
Authorized
Since 2020
Execution requirements
Notarization — Recommended only
No formal execution requirements beyond settlor signature; notarization strongly recommended when funding real property
Witnesses — None required
Unlike wills, living trusts in Pennsylvania do not require witnesses.
Written and signed by settlor
The trust document must be in writing and signed by you (the settlor) while of sound mind and at least 18 years old.
Funding the trust
Creating the trust document is only the first step. The trust only controls assets that have been formally transferred into it.
- •Real estate: Execute a new deed in Pennsylvania naming the trust as owner, then record it with the county
- •Bank & brokerage accounts: Contact the institution to retitle the account to the trust
- •Vehicles: Contact the Pennsylvania DMV to transfer the title
- •Life insurance & retirement accounts: Update beneficiary designations (these pass outside the trust)
This information is general in nature and not legal advice. Laws change — consult a licensed estate planning attorney in Pennsylvania for guidance specific to your situation.