Maryland Living Trust Template — Print, Sign & File Today

Manage and distribute assets while avoiding probate

Sales Tax: 6%Notary: $4Witnesses: 1

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REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST AGREEMENT
State of Maryland

This Living Trust Agreement is made on [DATE] by:

GRANTOR/TRUSTOR:
Name: [YOUR NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS], MD [ZIP]

TRUSTEE:
Name: [TRUSTEE NAME] (may be same as Grantor)
Address: [ADDRESS], MD [ZIP]

SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE:
Name: [SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS], MD [ZIP]

ARTICLE I — TRUST NAME
This trust shall be known as the "[YOUR NAME] Revocable Living Trust."

ARTICLE II — TRUST PROPERTY
The Grantor transfers the property listed in Schedule A to the Trustee to hold under the terms of this agreement.

ARTICLE III — DURING GRANTOR'S LIFETIME
The Trustee shall manage trust property for the benefit of the Grantor. The Grantor retains the right to amend, revoke, or terminate this trust at any time.

ARTICLE IV — UPON GRANTOR'S INCAPACITY
If the Grantor becomes incapacitated, the Successor Trustee shall manage trust assets for the Grantor's benefit.

ARTICLE V — UPON GRANTOR'S DEATH
Upon death, the Trustee shall distribute trust assets as follows:
1. [BENEFICIARY NAME]: [PERCENTAGE/DESCRIPTION]
2. [BENEFICIARY NAME]: [PERCENTAGE/DESCRIPTION]
3. [BENEFICIARY NAME]: [PERCENTAGE/DESCRIPTION]

ARTICLE VI — TRUSTEE POWERS
The Trustee shall have full power to invest, sell, lease, and manage trust property in accordance with Maryland trust law.

This trust is governed by the laws of Maryland (MD Statutes).

GRANTOR SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
TRUSTEE SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____

NOTARY:
State of Maryland, County of [COUNTY]
Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__.
Notary Public: _____________________

SCHEDULE A — TRUST PROPERTY:
[LIST ALL PROPERTY TRANSFERRED TO TRUST]

Where to File Your Living Trust in Maryland

Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Living Trust.

Maryland County Clerk

Maryland Capital

Main Government Building, Maryland

District County Clerk

Maryland Metro Area

County Courthouse, MD

Maryland Living Trust Requirements

Review the following requirements to ensure your Living Trust is legally valid in Maryland.

Grantor must be of sound mind
Successor trustee named
Trust property listed in schedule
Notarization required
Trust must be funded (assets transferred)
Revocation clause included
Distribution instructions specified
Incapacity provisions included
Governing law stated
Signed by grantor and trustee

Maryland Notarization

While notarization may not be required in Maryland, it is recommended. Fees range from $4.

Before You Sign

Review all information carefully. In Maryland, a 6% sales tax may apply.

Legal Protection

Keep copies of all signed documents. Maryland law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.

Maryland Filing Deadlines

Check Maryland deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.

FAQ: Living Trust in Maryland

Is a Living Trust required in Maryland?

Yes, in Maryland, a Living Trust is required for most transactions of this type. Under Maryland State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Living Trust may result in legal complications.

Does a Living Trust need to be notarized in Maryland?

Notarization requirements in Maryland (MD) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $4. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.

What are the tax implications of a Living Trust in Maryland?

Maryland has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Living Trust, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Maryland tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.

What is the difference between a living trust and a will?

A living trust avoids probate and takes effect immediately, while a will goes through probate after death. A trust provides privacy (not public record), can manage assets during incapacity, but requires transferring assets into the trust to be effective.

Do I still need a will if I have a living trust?

Yes, a "pour-over" will is recommended to catch any assets not transferred to the trust during your lifetime. The will directs those assets into the trust. You also need a will to name guardians for minor children.

Can I be my own trustee?

Yes, most people serve as their own trustee of their revocable living trust. You maintain full control of your assets during your lifetime. A successor trustee takes over if you become incapacitated or pass away.

JRJ
Reviewed & Fact-Checked

Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.

Estate Planning Attorney

Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience

Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents

This Living Trust template for Maryland has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Living Trust Costs in Maryland

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary Fee$5-$15 (if required)Maryland standard rate: $4
Filing FeeVaries by stateState registration (if applicable)
Processing Time1-3 business daysTypical turnaround in Maryland
Sales Tax6%Maryland base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are Maryland-specific estimates. Contact your local office for exact pricing.

Maryland Living Trust Legal Guide

Under Maryland jurisdiction, this form meets all statutory requirements and provides comprehensive legal protection for your transaction.

Pursuant to Maryland State Code in Maryland, this Living Trust must meet specific criteria. The applicable sales tax is 6%. Notarization, which costs $4 in MD, is strongly recommended. 1 witness is needed.

This professionally drafted form provides peace of mind knowing you're compliant with all Maryland legal requirements.

grantortrusteesuccessor trusteetrust assetsrevocable trustavoid probatetrust fundestate planning
A properly executed Living Trust in Maryland protects all parties involved and ensures compliance with MD state law. Below, we cover the critical steps, common pitfalls, and state-specific rules you should be aware of before signing.

Step-by-Step Process

1. **Download the template** — Our Maryland-specific form includes all fields required by MD law.
2. **Enter your information** — Fill in names, addresses, dates, and transaction details accurately.
3. **Review carefully** — Double-check all entries against your source documents.
4. **Sign and witness** — Execute the document according to Maryland's signature requirements.
5. **Notarize if needed** — Some Maryland transactions require notarization.
6. **File or distribute** — Provide copies to all parties and file with the appropriate Maryland office if required.

Pro Tips for Maryland Residents

- **Use blue or black ink** when signing physical copies in Maryland
- **Keep digital backups** of all signed documents
- **Check for local county requirements** that may apply in addition to MD state law
- **Don't backdate** — Maryland courts view backdated documents unfavorably
- **Consult an attorney** for transactions exceeding $10,000 in value

Legal Validity & Enforcement

Once properly executed, your Living Trust is legally binding in Maryland and enforceable in MD courts. The document remains valid indefinitely unless revoked or superseded. Maryland courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable MD statutes.

Legal Standards in Maryland

Under MD state code, your Living Trust must contain several mandatory elements. Maryland courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.

Document Information

Document
Living Trust
State
Maryland (MD)
Category
Estate Planning
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
6%
Notary Fee
$4

Maryland Legal Requirements

Governing Statute:

State Law

  • Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements

Legal Disclaimer

This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Maryland may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.