What Types of Assets Can Be Included in an Ohio Trust?
February 24, 2025
What Types of Assets Can Be Included in an Ohio Trust?
A trust is a powerful estate planning tool that allows individuals to protect and manage their assets for future generations. In Ohio, a wide range of assets can be included in a trust, providing flexibility and security for both grantors and beneficiaries. At Singler Law LLC, we can provide legal assistance to the Phoenix public and help clients understand how to structure a trust that meets their financial and personal goals.
Common Assets That Can Be Placed in an Ohio Trust
- Real Estate
Residential and commercial properties can be transferred into a trust to avoid probate and provide continuity of ownership. This can be particularly useful for those who want to pass down family homes or investment properties. - Financial Accounts
Bank accounts, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs) can be included in a trust. This ensures that funds are managed according to the grantor’s wishes and are accessible to beneficiaries without court intervention. - Stocks and Bonds
Investment portfolios, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, can be transferred to a trust. Doing so can provide long-term financial benefits, reduce estate taxes, and allow for controlled distribution to beneficiaries. - Business Interests
Business owners in Ohio can place ownership interests, such as shares in a corporation or membership interests in an LLC, into a trust. This can facilitate smooth business succession planning and ensure that the business continues operating according to the grantor’s wishes. - Personal Property
High-value personal property, including vehicles, artwork, jewelry, antiques, and collectibles, can be held in a trust. This can prevent disputes among heirs and ensure that valuable items are distributed as intended. - Retirement Accounts and Life Insurance Policies
While retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s typically cannot be transferred directly into a trust, a trust can be named as a beneficiary. Similarly, life insurance policies can list a trust as the beneficiary to ensure that proceeds are distributed according to the grantor’s instructions. - Intellectual Property
Copyrights, trademarks, and patents can be placed in a trust to ensure that royalties and rights are managed properly for beneficiaries. This is especially useful for individuals with creative works or valuable intellectual property.
Benefits of Using a Trust in Ohio

Placing assets in a trust offers several advantages, including:
- Avoiding Probate: Assets in a trust bypass probate, reducing delays and legal fees.
- Privacy Protection: Trusts are not public records, unlike wills, which helps maintain confidentiality.
- Asset Management: Trusts provide clear instructions on asset distribution and management.
- Protection Against Creditors: Certain trusts can shield assets from creditors and legal claims.
Setting up a trust requires careful planning and proper legal guidance. At Singler Law LLC, we assist individuals in Ohio and provide legal support to those in Phoenix who need help establishing and managing a trust. Our goal is to ensure that your assets are properly structured to meet your long-term objectives.
What is a Living Trust? A Guide for Cincinnati Residents
Guardianship is an important legal tool designed to help individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves due to illness, disability, or other circumstances. Ohio has two primary types of guardianship: limited and full. Each offers varying levels of oversight and protection, depending on the needs of the person involved. Understanding the differences between these options is crucial for ensuring your loved one receives the right care and support. What Is Limited Guardianship? Limited guardianship is a form of guardianship where the court assigns a guardian to make decisions only in specific areas of a person’s life. This could include financial decisions, medical choices, or other aspects the individual may struggle with. The guardian’s authority is restricted to these areas, allowing the person to retain control over other aspects of their life. Limited guardianship is ideal for individuals who need help in certain areas but can still make other decisions independently. What Is Full Guardianship? Full guardianship, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive arrangement. In this situation, the guardian assumes control over all aspects of the individual’s life, including personal, medical, and financial decisions. Full guardianship is typically considered when someone is unable to manage any part of their daily life and requires continuous oversight and assistance. This option is often pursued for individuals who are severely incapacitated or have significant cognitive impairments. Choosing the Right Level of Guardianship Deciding between limited and full guardianship depends on the specific needs and abilities of your loved one. If they can still make certain decisions or manage some aspects of their life, limited guardianship may provide a sufficient level of support while preserving their independence. Full guardianship may be necessary if the person’s condition is more severe and they cannot make decisions in any area of their life. It’s important to carefully assess the individual’s situation and consult a legal professional to determine the best course of action. The Legal Process in Ohio In Ohio, the process of establishing guardianship requires filing a petition with the probate court. This includes presenting evidence of the person’s incapacity and demonstrating the need for a guardian. The court will review the case and decide whether a limited or full guardianship is appropriate based on the individual’s circumstances. It is important to ensure that the guardianship arrangement reflects the person’s needs and is tailored to provide the right level of support. Choosing between limited and full guardianship in Ohio is a significant decision that affects both the individual in need of care and their family. By understanding the differences between these two options, you can make an informed decision that provides the right level of protection and support. Always consult with a legal professional to ensure the process is carried out correctly and that your loved one receives the best care possible.
What Is a Special Needs Trust?
What Are the Documents Required to Create a Trust in Ohio?
Planning for the future is crucial, and having a well-crafted will and trust is essential to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are honored. Knowing when to hire a Wills & Trusts attorney can make a significant difference in achieving a successful estate plan. At Singler Law LLC, we specialize in providing expert legal guidance for estate planning in Ohio. Discover when it’s essential to seek professional legal help and how our experienced attorneys can assist you in securing your legacy and peace of mind.
In life, there may come a time when you are unable to make decisions for yourself due to illness, injuries, or other circumstances. In such situations, having a power of attorney in place can be incredibly beneficial. A power of attorney is a legal document that allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. In this blog post, we will explore the power of attorney in Ohio and how it can help protect your interests and ensure your wishes are carried out.
Understanding Probate and the Role of a Probate Attorney in Ohio
Planning for the future is an essential step for every individual, yet it is one that many tend to put off. One key aspect of future planning is deciding how to manage and transfer your assets after you pass away. For Ohio residents, understanding the intricacies of wills and trusts is pivotal in ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are taken care of. In this blog post, we will elucidate the basics of wills and trusts, their importance, and how an attorney can guide you through the process.
Can a Trustee be a Beneficiary? Understanding the Conflicts and How to Mitigate Them
How Long Does Probate Take? Exploring the Timing and Benefits of Working with an Attorney