Rhode Island Living Trust Template — Print, Sign & File Today

Manage and distribute assets while avoiding probate

Sales Tax: 7%Notary: $10Witnesses: 1

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REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST AGREEMENT
State of Rhode Island

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

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

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

SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE:
Name: [SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS], RI [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 Rhode Island trust law.

This trust is governed by the laws of Rhode Island (RI Statutes).

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

NOTARY:
State of Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island

Is a Living Trust required in Rhode Island?

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

Notarization requirements in Rhode Island (RI) 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 Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a base sales tax rate of 7%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Living Trust, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island

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

Rhode Island County Clerk

Rhode Island Capital

Main Government Building, Rhode Island

District County Clerk

Rhode Island Metro Area

County Courthouse, RI

Living Trust Costs in Rhode Island

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary Fee$5-$15 (if required)Rhode Island standard rate: $10
Filing FeeVaries by stateState registration (if applicable)
Processing Time1-3 business daysTypical turnaround in Rhode Island
Sales Tax7%Rhode Island base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are Rhode Island-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 Rhode Island has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Rhode Island Living Trust Legal Guide

According to Rhode Island laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Under Rhode Island State Code, residents of Rhode Island must ensure this Living Trust complies with all state requirements. The current sales tax rate is 7%, and notarization costs between $10. One witness is required in RI.

Using this template ensures you're protected under Rhode Island law while saving time and money on legal fees.

grantortrusteesuccessor trusteetrust assetsrevocable trustavoid probatetrust fundestate planning
Navigating Rhode Island's legal landscape for a Living Trust doesn't have to be complicated. This guide breaks down everything RI residents need to know — from required fields to filing procedures — so you can complete your document with confidence.

Step-by-Step Process

1. **Download the template** — Our Rhode Island-specific form includes all fields required by RI 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 Rhode Island's signature requirements.
5. **Notarize if needed** — Some Rhode Island transactions require notarization.
6. **File or distribute** — Provide copies to all parties and file with the appropriate Rhode Island office if required.

What Rhode Island Attorneys Want You to Know

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

Legal Validity & Enforcement

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

Meeting Rhode Island's Legal Threshold

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

Rhode Island Living Trust Requirements

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

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

Rhode Island Notarization

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

Before You Sign

Review all information carefully. In Rhode Island, a 7% sales tax may apply.

Legal Protection

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

Rhode Island Filing Deadlines

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

Document Information

Document
Living Trust
State
Rhode Island (RI)
Category
Estate Planning
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
7%
Notary Fee
$10

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