OVERVIEW
Once you decide to move forward with an Express Trust, TFP guides you through every step. Here is a plain-language breakdown of what to expect from start to finish.
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THE EXPRESS TRUST PROCESS — STEP BY STEP
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STEP 1 — DISCOVERY CALL
You’ll start with a consultation call with a TFP advisor. This is where we learn about your situation, your assets, and your goals — and confirm that an Express Trust is the right fit for you.
STEP 2 — SERVICE AGREEMENT & PAYMENT
Once you decide to move forward, you’ll sign a service agreement and make your payment (or first payment if on a payment plan). This officially starts your trust process.
STEP 3 — PACKET REQUIREMENTS FORM
You’ll complete a detailed intake form (called the Packet Requirements Form). This collects the information needed to draft your trust: your name, the names of trustees and beneficiaries, assets to be included, and other key details. Take your time with this — accuracy here matters.
STEP 4— SOLE TRUSTEE SELECTION
You’ll be prompted to select a self-directed sole trustee or to contract with one of our vetted and confirmed trustees
STEP 5 — TRUST DOCUMENT DRAFTING
Using your completed intake form, TFP drafts your customized Express Trust documents. These are private, legal documents specific to you.
STEP 6 — EIN APPLICATION
Once your trust is drafted, TFP files for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for the trust with the IRS. Think of this like a Social Security Number — but for your trust. It’s required to open bank accounts and conduct business in the name of the trust.
What is an EIN? An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your trust as a separate legal entity for tax purposes.
STEP 7 — IRS FORM 8832 (ENTITY CLASSIFICATION ELECTION)
After the EIN is issued, TFP files IRS Form 8832 on behalf of your trust. This form tells the IRS how your trust should be classified for federal tax purposes.
What is Form 8832? It’s an “Entity Classification Election” — it lets the trust elect its own tax treatment rather than defaulting to the IRS’s standard classification. This is an important step in how the trust is positioned tax-wise.
STEP 8 — CP575 CONFIRMATION
After the EIN application is processed, the IRS issues a CP575 letter — an official confirmation of your trust’s EIN. This letter is an important document. Keep it in a safe place.
What is CP575? It’s the IRS’s official confirmation letter acknowledging your trust’s Employer Identification Number.You’ll need this when opening bank accounts or establishing relationships in the trust’s name.
STEP 9— REMOTE ONLINE NOTARIZATION (RON)
Your trust documents need to be officially notarized. TFP uses Remote Online Notarization (RON), which means the notarization happens via a secure video call — no need to appear in person. You’ll receive instructions and a link to schedule your RON session.
What is RON? Remote Online Notarization is a legal process where a certified notary witnesses and authenticates your signature via a live video session. It carries the same legal weight as in-person notarization.
STEP 10— UCC FILING (IF APPLICABLE)
Depending on your situation and goals, TFP may file a UCC-1 Financing Statement on your behalf. This is a public filing that establishes your trust as a secured party with an interest in specific assets.
What is a UCC filing? UCC stands for Uniform Commercial Code. A UCC-1 filing is a legal notice that puts the public on record that your trust has a claim or interest in certain collateral. It’s commonly used in commercial and asset protection strategies.
STEP 11 — DOCUMENT DELIVERY
Once all filings are complete and your trust is fully established, TFP delivers your complete trust package. This includes your trust documents, EIN confirmation, and any other materials relevant to your trust.
STEP 12 — TRUST EDUCATION (ONGOING)
Your trust is a powerful tool — but only if you know how to use it. TFP provides ongoing trust education resources to help you understand how to operate your trust, move assets into it, and maintain it properly.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Q: How long does the process take?
A: The timeline varies depending on IRS processing times and how quickly you complete the intake form. TFP will give you a current estimated timeline during your consultation.
Q: Do I need to do anything during the process?
A: Yes — your biggest responsibility is completing the Packet Requirements Form accurately and attending your RON session. TFP handles everything else.
Q: What if I have questions during the process?
A: Reach out to your assigned TFP advisor or contact support at any time. You’re not on your own — we’re with you every step.
Q: What happens after my trust is delivered?
A: You’ll start moving assets into the trust and learning how to operate it. TFP’s trust education resources guide you through this.
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TIPS
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• Complete your intake form carefully — errors can cause delays.
• Keep all trust documents in a secure, organized location.
• Engage with the trust education content — it’s there to help you get the full benefit of your trust.
