How To Prepare For A Trust Signing

Richard Anderson • September 12, 2025

Creating a trust is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your assets and make sure your loved ones are taken care of. But when it’s time to actually sign the documents, many people aren’t sure what to expect—or how to prepare.

A trust signing isn’t just “signing a few papers.” It’s a formal legal process that requires careful planning, multiple signatures, and compliance with Michigan law. Whether your trust was prepared by an attorney, drafted online, or self-prepared, the signing requirements remain the same.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare with confidence.

1. Know Who Prepared Your Trust

Trusts can be created in different ways:

  • Estate Planning Attorney – Ensures your trust complies with Michigan law and works with other key documents like wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
  • Self-Prepared Trust – Michigan law does allow individuals to write their own. Just make sure it’s clear and enforceable.
  • Online Trust Services – Options like Everything Living Trust can be cost-effective, but the signing must still meet Michigan’s legal requirements.

No matter which path you take, the signing appointment is where your wishes officially become legally binding.

2. Understand What You’ll Be Signing

Most Michigan estate plans include more than just the trust itself. Common documents are:

  • Revocable Living Trust
  • Pour-Over Will (Last Will & Testament)
  • Durable Power of Attorney
  • Living Will & Healthcare Directives
  • Deeds to transfer property into the trust

Each may require notarization and witnesses, so knowing what’s included helps you feel prepared.

3. Gather Proper Identification

Notaries in Michigan must verify your identity. Acceptable IDs include:

  • Michigan driver’s license or ID card
  • U.S. passport (book only—not the card)
  • Out-of-state driver’s license

Military IDs usually don’t qualify unless they have a visible signature.

4. Arrange for Witnesses

Most estate documents require two impartial witnesses in addition to the notary. Witnesses confirm that you’re signing willingly, you understand what you’re signing, and no one is pressuring you.

Witnesses cannot be:

  • Relatives
  • Beneficiaries named in the trust or will
  • Anyone who stands to gain from your estate plan

If you don’t have witnesses available, many notaries (including MobileNotary2Go) can provide them for you.

5. Choose a Comfortable Location

Trust signings can run 50+ pages and take some time, so it’s best to sign somewhere comfortable and private. Popular options include:

  • Your attorney’s office
  • Your home or a loved one’s home
  • Hospital, rehab, or assisted living facility

As a mobile notary, I’ll come to you—wherever you feel most at ease.

6. Review Everything in Advance

Give yourself time to review the documents before your appointment. If something isn’t clear, ask your attorney, preparer, or online service ahead of time. Notaries can point you to a section but cannot explain or give legal advice.

A little homework ahead of time ensures a smoother signing and greater peace of mind.

7. Allow Enough Time

A full trust signing can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how many documents and signers are involved. Don’t squeeze it in between appointments—set aside enough time so you don’t feel rushed.

8. Secure Your Signed Documents

Once signed, your documents need safe storage. Paper copies can be lost, damaged, or hard to access in an emergency. That’s why many families choose a secure digital option like the Legacy Vault® by My Life & Wishes.

Legacy Vault® lets you safely upload, organize, and share your trust, will, and other key documents so your family can access them when needed—without added stress.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a trust signing in Michigan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right ID, impartial witnesses, a comfortable location, and enough time, you’ll be ready for a smooth and valid signing.

At MobileNotary2Go, we specialize in estate plan signings—including trusts, wills, and healthcare directives. We’ll come to you, provide impartial witnesses if needed, and make sure everything is executed properly. Plus, we partner with Legacy Vault® to give you a secure way to protect and share your documents long-term.