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How to Find the Assets That Belong to a Trust

By July 14, 2025No Comments

Table of Contents

  • Key Takeaways
  • Understanding a Trustee’s Duty to Locate Trust Assets
  • 7 Effective Strategies to Identify Trust Assets
  • How The Grossman Law Firm Can Help
  • Related Resources
  • FAQ
  • Next Steps

How to Find the Assets That Belong to a Trust

Key Takeaways

  • A trustee must identify all assets belonging to the trust or the decedent at the time of death.
  • Common trust assets include real property, financial accounts, and business interests.
  • Utilizing several investigative tools, such as reviewing tax returns, mail, or hiring an asset search firm, can help locate assets.
  • Failure to identify all trust assets may result in legal disputes or fiduciary liability for the trustee.

Understanding a Trustee’s Duty to Locate Trust Assets

At The Grossman Law Firm, we work closely with trustees to ensure that the trust administration process adheres to California law and that no assets are overlooked. Attorney Scott Grossman has helped trustees and beneficiaries protect their rights and fulfill their duties throughout his career, and he can do the same for you.

While some assets, such as a home, are easy to identify, others—like small investment accounts, online holdings, or forgotten loans—may require detective work. Learn how to find the assets that belong to a trust below. 

7 Effective Strategies to Identify Trust Assets

If you’re a trustee and unsure where to begin, here are seven practical methods to help uncover trust assets:

1. Review the Trust Document

Check for any attached schedules or lists of trust property. Sometimes the trust itself will name specific bank accounts, parcels of real estate, or investment assets.

2. Look for Financial Statements

Your loved one may have left behind a personal financial statement or organized records showing bank, investment, or insurance accounts.

3. Search Property Records

Conduct title searches in California counties where the decedent lived or invested. This can reveal real estate titled in the name of the trust.

4. Check Recent Tax Returns

Federal and state tax returns can offer valuable insight into reported income from real estate, interest, dividends, and business holdings.

5. Sort Through Mail

Reviewing the decedent’s mail is a smart way to spot unknown accounts. Look for bank statements, dividend checks, or correspondence from financial institutions.

6. Consult With Professionals

Reach out to the decedent’s CPA, financial advisor, or estate planning attorney. These professionals may know about accounts or assets not otherwise documented.

7. Hire an Asset Search Firm

If you’re still concerned that assets are missing, consider hiring a professional firm to conduct a private asset search. These services specialize in locating hidden or overlooked property.

How The Grossman Law Firm Can Help

If you believe trust assets are being concealed or were removed improperly, it may be time to pursue trust litigation. At The Grossman Law Firm, we represent beneficiaries across California in recovering hidden or mishandled assets and holding trustees accountable for mismanagement or breach of fiduciary duty.

Related Resources

FAQ

What should I do if I can’t find a trust asset listed in the trust?

Start by reviewing the decedent’s financial records and consulting professionals who may have worked with them. If the asset truly cannot be located, consult a trust attorney.

Can a trustee be held liable for failing to identify trust property?

Yes. Trustees have a legal duty to diligently locate and protect trust property. Failure to do so can lead to removal or personal liability.

What happens if a trustee suspects someone is hiding trust assets?

The trustee should speak with an experienced trust litigation attorney. Legal tools like subpoenas or court orders may be used to compel disclosure.

Next Steps 

At The Grossman Law Firm, we assist California trustees and beneficiaries in understanding and enforcing their rights during trust administration. If you’re facing a situation where trust assets are missing or you’re unsure how to locate them, we can guide you through the process.

Call (888) 443-6590 or fill out our Get Help Now form.

Our Intake Specialists can evaluate your case to assess your situation at no cost to you.

Qualifying cases will be scheduled for a Free Phone Consultation with Attorney Scott Grossman.