When someone passes away, their will often outlines how their legacy should be managed and who will take on that responsibility. But even when those instructions are clear, the process of putting them into action can feel overwhelming — especially when it involves a trust for a loved one with ongoing support needs.
Recently, PLAN supported a trustee who was named in a will to manage a testamentary trust for a person with a disability. The trust was meant to hold the family home and part of the estate, ensuring long-term stability and support.
Over time, the process of setting up the trust became complicated. Legal terms, unclear steps, and delays meant that the person at the centre of the trust had been relying on their own savings instead of the support intended for them. The trustee wanted to help, but needed reassurance about the responsibilities — and protections — that come with the role.
That’s where PLAN stepped in. Our role wasn’t to replace legal advice, but to walk alongside the trustee and personal support network, making sure everyone understood:
What the will says.
The difference between an executor and a trustee.
The trustee’s rights and responsibilities.
The practical steps to get the trust working as intended.
We brought in a trusted lawyer to explain the structure of the trust, confirm that the trustee’s personal assets were protected as long as they acted in good faith, and outline the process for transferring the estate into the trust. With that clarity, the trustee felt confident to move forward — fulfilling a promise to safeguard the person’s future.
Supporting trustees is one of the ways PLAN continues to be there for people after a parent or primary caregiver passes away. It’s about more than documents and legal steps — it’s about making sure the person at the centre of the plan is secure, connected, and surrounded by people who care.
Every trust, like every family, is unique. But the need for trusted guidance, clear information, and steady support is universal. At PLAN, we’re here for the long run — walking with families through the transitions that come after loss, and helping them keep the promises that matter most.
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If your family is navigating a trust, or you’re a trustee who would like guidance and support, we invite you to connect with us at hello@plan.ca.