What to Bring to a Trustee Discovery Call (So You Get Real Answers)

Most discovery calls feel vague because nobody has the right information in front of them.

If you bring a short set of documents and decisions, you will get real answers about structure, timeline, and fit.

Bring these documents (if available)

• Trust document (and any amendments)
• A recent account statement for major assets held in the trust
• A list of beneficiaries and contact information
• A list of current advisors (attorney, CPA, investment advisor)
• Any existing distribution history (high level)

If you do not have everything, that is normal. The goal is to establish what exists and what is missing.

Bring these decisions (or best guesses)

• What is the primary goal?
• Select a trustee
• Replace a trustee
• Build a directed trustee structure

• Improve reporting and administration

• What is the estimated asset range?

• What is the timeline?
• Are there special assets (real estate, entities, concentrated positions)?
• Are there special situations (minor beneficiaries, special needs, charitable intent)?

Questions that produce signal

• "What does onboarding look like in the first 30 to 60 days?"
• "How are discretionary distributions evaluated and documented?"
• "How do you coordinate with my CPA and attorney?"
• "Can you show me an example reporting package?"
• "What triggers additional fees?"

The quick alternative

If you want to start async, the Trust Audit Scorecard is designed to capture the minimum information needed to give you clear next steps.