-
Washington DC Trust Revocation: Complete Form & Instructions
Washington DC This form will legally and effectively help you apply to the probate and revoke your revocable (living) trust, whether you are a Washington DC resident or otherwise. It is also referred to as an inter vivos revocation of trust, which allows the settlor to recover trust assets upon his life. According to D.C. Code § 19-1306.02, the trust can be revoked with the exception that if the trust does not indicate it is irrevocable, you have the right to revoke or to amend it.
When You Might Consider Revoking Your Trust
Revoking a living trust in DC can make sense in several situations, including:
Simplifying your estate plan
Changes in your financial situation or assets
Preferring to manage property directly
Trust terms no longer match your wishes
Biological factors like marriage, divorce or transfer.
From Georgetown to Capitol Hill and any other DC neighbourhood, a revocation form serves to assist in addressing the appropriate theft or distribution of assets.
How to Revoke a Revocable Living Trust in DC
1. Review the trust agreement
Check if your trust reserves a right of revocation and prescribes a method. Even if it doesn’t, DC law allows revocation.
2. Draft the revocation document
Your revocation declaration should include:
Original trust name and date
Names of settlor(s) and trustee(s)
A clear statement revoking the trust
Instructions for distributing or retitling assets
Date and signature(s)
3. You can find sample revocation of living trust form PDFs or free blank forms here on this website to help draft the document correctly.
4. Execute the document
Sign the form according to your trust’s requirements. Notarisation is recommended to prevent disputes.
5. Notify the trustee(s)
The trustee must receive the revocation to stop managing the trust. Once revoked, they are legally required to deliver the trust property as directed.
6. Retitle or transfer assets
Get more assets back in the name of the identified owners: bank accounts, real estate, and investments.
7. Maintain records
Record copies of the revocation, delivery proofs and copies of asset transfers in case of a reference later.
Legal Considerations Under DC Law
-
Revocability by default: Trusts default to revocability. Trusts default to irrevocability.
Multiple settlors:
Community property: either spouse may revoke alone
Non-community property: each settler may revoke their portion.
Method of revocation:
By substantial compliance with trust instructions
If no method is specified, a later will or codicil referring to the trust may serve
Trustee duties: Trustees should act afterwards following the revocation.
Agent/guardian authority: An agent by power of authority can only revoke the power with permission; conservators or a guardian should get permission in court.
Trustee liability: Good faith without knowledge of revocation-A trustee is not liable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is a revocation of a revocable trust form?
It is the legal document used to cancel a living trust, returning control of assets to the settlor.
Q2. How can I get a Washington DC Revocation of Revocable Trust Form?
You can download it here for free. Using a prepared template ensures compliance with DC law.
Q3. Can a later revoke my trust in DC?
Yes, if your trust does not specify an exclusive method, a will or codicil referring to the trust can serve as revocation.
Q4. Do I need court approval?
Generally, no. Court involvement is only required in disputes or modifications to irrevocable trusts.
Q5. Do both settlers need to revoke a joint trust?
For community property, either spouse may act alone. For individually contributed assets, each settler must act for their portion.
Key Tips
-
Always look at your initial trust to prescribe methods of revocation.
Use clear, unmistakable language in your document.
Deliver the revocation promptly to your trustee.
Retitle or transfer assets immediately.
Record in order to prevent further complications.
In case of complications, use an estate attorney.
Download & Revoke Today
Download your Washington DC Revocation of Revocable Trust Form today to revoke your trust safely and regain control of your assets. Our free form is fully compliant with DC law and ready for immediate use.