Official Michigan Living Trust Form | Step-by-Step Guide

Manage and distribute assets while avoiding probate

Sales Tax: 6%Notary: $10Witnesses: 1

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REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST AGREEMENT
State of Michigan

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

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

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

SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE:
Name: [SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS], MI [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 Michigan trust law.

This trust is governed by the laws of Michigan (MI Statutes).

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

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

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

FAQ: Living Trust in Michigan

Is a Living Trust required in Michigan?

Yes, in Michigan, a Living Trust is required for most transactions of this type. Under Michigan 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 Michigan?

Notarization requirements in Michigan (MI) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $10. 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 Michigan?

Michigan 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 Michigan 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.

Where to File Your Living Trust in Michigan

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

Wayne County Clerk

Detroit

2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Kent County Clerk

Grand Rapids

300 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Ingham County Clerk

Lansing

341 S Jefferson St, Mason, MI 48854

Living Trust Costs in Michigan

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary Fee$5-$15 (if required)Michigan standard rate: $10
Filing FeeVaries by stateState registration (if applicable)
Processing Time1-3 business daysTypical turnaround in Michigan
Sales Tax6%Michigan base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are Michigan-specific estimates. Contact your local office for exact pricing.
SMJ
Reviewed & Fact-Checked

Sarah Mitchell, J.D.

Legal Document Specialist

Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience

Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation

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

Last reviewed: March 2026

Michigan Living Trust Requirements

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

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

Michigan Notarization

While notarization may not be required in Michigan, it is recommended. Fees range from $10.

Before You Sign

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

Legal Protection

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

Michigan Filing Deadlines

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

Michigan Living Trust Legal Guide

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

In Michigan, according to Michigan State Code, a 6% sales tax applies to applicable transactions. Notary fees in MI typically range from $10. A single witness signature is sufficient under state law.

Ensure your transaction is legally sound in Michigan with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.

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

How to Complete This Form

Start by gathering all necessary information: party names, addresses, and relevant details specific to your transaction. Michigan law under MI requires accuracy in every field. Once completed, have all parties review the document before signing. Depending on the transaction type, Michigan may require notarization or witness signatures.

What Michigan Attorneys Want You to Know

Practicing lawyers in Michigan emphasize three things: accuracy, completeness, and compliance with MI statutes. A well-prepared Living Trust saves time, money, and potential legal headaches down the road. When in doubt, a brief consultation with a Michigan-licensed attorney is worth the investment.

How Michigan Courts View This Document

Michigan courts apply MI statutory standards when evaluating a Living Trust. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.

Meeting Michigan's Legal Threshold

For your Living Trust to hold up in a Michigan court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. MI law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.

Document Information

Document
Living Trust
State
Michigan (MI)
Category
Estate Planning
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
6%
Notary Fee
$10

Michigan 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 Michigan may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.