Trusts are legal entities that own assets, and all trusts are not alike. They are created by a written trust document with certain provisions that can vary from trust to trust.
If asked to be a trustee, anyone, unless previously experienced in this field would not know what the responsibilities are. How much work is involved? What is the time frame? Do I need to prepare tax returns and handle accounts? Can I get help? When do my responsibilities end?
Without proper planning, leaving an inheritance or making a gift to a disabled family member can cause the disabled person to lose their means-based government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income or Medicaid.