Download Free Living Trust Template for Tennessee
Manage and distribute assets while avoiding probate
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REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST AGREEMENT State of Tennessee This Living Trust Agreement is made on [DATE] by: GRANTOR/TRUSTOR: Name: [YOUR NAME] Address: [ADDRESS], TN [ZIP] TRUSTEE: Name: [TRUSTEE NAME] (may be same as Grantor) Address: [ADDRESS], TN [ZIP] SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE: Name: [SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE NAME] Address: [ADDRESS], TN [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 Tennessee trust law. This trust is governed by the laws of Tennessee (TN Statutes). GRANTOR SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ TRUSTEE SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ NOTARY: State of Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Is a Living Trust required in Tennessee?
Yes, in Tennessee, a Living Trust is required for most transactions of this type. Under Tennessee State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by 2 individuals. Failure to use a proper Living Trust may result in legal complications.
Does a Living Trust need to be notarized in Tennessee?
Notarization requirements in Tennessee (TN) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $5. 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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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.
Living Trust Costs in Tennessee
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Tennessee standard rate: $5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Tennessee |
| Sales Tax | 7% | Tennessee base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 2 witnesses | Tennessee requires multiple witnesses |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Tennessee Living Trust Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Living Trust is legally valid in Tennessee.
Tennessee Notarization
Tennessee requires 2 witnesses and notarization may be mandatory. Fees typically range from $5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Tennessee, a 7% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Tennessee law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Tennessee Filing Deadlines
Check Tennessee deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Tennessee Living Trust Legal Guide
According to Tennessee laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
For Tennessee (TN) residents, this Living Trust is governed by Tennessee State Code. Important details: sales tax at 7%, notary costs of $5, and a requirement for 2 witnesses. The document has indefinite validity once properly executed.
This document offers comprehensive legal protection tailored specifically to Tennessee's unique statutory framework.
How to Complete This Form
Start by gathering all necessary information: party names, addresses, and relevant details specific to your transaction. Tennessee law under TN requires accuracy in every field. Once completed, have all parties review the document before signing. Depending on the transaction type, Tennessee may require notarization or witness signatures.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Living Trust is legally binding in Tennessee and enforceable in TN courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Tennessee courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable TN statutes.
Pro Tips for Tennessee Residents
- **Use blue or black ink** when signing physical copies in Tennessee
- **Keep digital backups** of all signed documents
- **Check for local county requirements** that may apply in addition to TN state law
- **Don't backdate** — Tennessee courts view backdated documents unfavorably
- **Consult an attorney** for transactions exceeding $10,000 in value
What Tennessee Law Requires
Tennessee's statutes are clear: a valid Living Trust must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of a notary public where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under TN law can render the document unenforceable.
Once properly executed, your Living Trust is legally binding in Tennessee and enforceable in TN courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Tennessee courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable TN statutes.
Pro Tips for Tennessee Residents
- **Use blue or black ink** when signing physical copies in Tennessee
- **Keep digital backups** of all signed documents
- **Check for local county requirements** that may apply in addition to TN state law
- **Don't backdate** — Tennessee courts view backdated documents unfavorably
- **Consult an attorney** for transactions exceeding $10,000 in value
What Tennessee Law Requires
Tennessee's statutes are clear: a valid Living Trust must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of a notary public where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under TN law can render the document unenforceable.
Tennessee's statutes are clear: a valid Living Trust must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of a notary public where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under TN law can render the document unenforceable.
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 Tennessee has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Where to File Your Living Trust in Tennessee
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Living Trust.
Tennessee County Clerk
Tennessee Capital
Main Government Building, Tennessee
District County Clerk
Tennessee Metro Area
County Courthouse, TN
Other Forms in Tennessee
Living Trust in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Living Trust
- State
- Tennessee (TN)
- Category
- Estate Planning
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 7%
- Notary Fee
- $5
Tennessee 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 Tennessee may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.