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Wills & Estate

Trust Deed Template

A trust deed creates a trust, naming the trustees, beneficiaries and terms on which assets are held. Trusts are used for estate planning, protecting assets and providing for others.

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What this trust deed covers

When you need a trust deed

The legal framework

Understanding the law behind a trust deed helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:

Wills Act 1837
Still the governing legislation for wills in England and Wales. Section 9 sets the execution requirements (signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who also sign); Section 15 means a witness, or their spouse, who is also a beneficiary forfeits the gift.
Mental Capacity Act 2005
Governs lasting powers of attorney and the capacity required to make a valid will.
Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
Allows certain people to claim from an estate if reasonable financial provision wasn't made for them.
On the horizon. In May 2025 the Law Commission published 'Modernising Wills Law' with a draft Bill proposing significant changes — including enabling electronic wills, ending the rule that marriage revokes a will, and letting courts infer undue influence. These are recommendations only and are not yet law; the Wills Act 1837 continues to apply.

Frequently asked questions

What types of trust are there?

Common types include bare trusts, life-interest trusts and discretionary trusts, each with different tax and control features.

Do trusts need to be registered?

Many trusts must now be registered with HMRC's Trust Registration Service.

How Legal Lift helps

Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored trust deed, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.

This page explains the law in general terms to help you understand your trust deed. It is information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are here to help.

Related templates

Last Will & TestamentLasting Power of AttorneyLiving Will / Advance DecisionCodicil to a WillLetter of WishesExecutor Appointment

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