Does a successor trustee need a new EIN?
David Craig
Updated on March 31, 2026
If you become successor trustee prior to the death of the grantor (due to incapacitation or disability), then you will not need to obtain an EIN (employer identification number) for the revocable living trust. You may obtain an EIN by completing Form SS-4 online at irs.gov.
Does a trustee need an EIN?
Does my living trust need an EIN? A revocable living trust does not normally need its own TIN (Tax Identification Number) while the grantor is still alive. When the grantor dies, the living trust becomes irrevocable and the successor trustee will get an EIN from the IRS to pay the trust’s taxes.
Does a trust need an EIN after death?
What happens to the trust after death? The reason why the trust will need an EIN after the death of the grantor is that at that point, the trust no longer meets the grantor trust rules and therefore can no longer use the deceased grantor’s Social Security number.
Can I use my SSN for an irrevocable trust?
Irrevocable Trusts Usually Need Their Own Number. Once a trust has become irrevocable, it usually cannot use the social security number of the trust creator and must obtain its own taxpayer identification number (“TIN”) from the IRS. An irrevocable trust that needs its own TIN must also file its own tax returns.
Can a bank be a successor trustee?
Of course, you are the trustee and the beneficiary in the living revocable trust you set up for estate planning. The child successor trustee will distribute the trustee accounts according to the terms of the trust, and everybody will be happy. However, sometimes a bank is a good choice as successor trustee.
Can a successor trustee use their Social Security number?
This made things simple and easy for your loved one. But upon the grantor’s death, his or her Social Security number cannot be used to manage the trust. The successor Trustee of the trust will need to get an EIN/TIN from the IRS in order to claim the trust’s assets and generally manage the trust.
Do all trusts need an EIN?
Does my living trust need an EIN? A revocable living trust does not normally need its own TIN (Tax Identification Number) while the grantor is still alive. In other words, when an institution requests an SSN or EIN (Employer Identification Number) for trust property, the grantor just uses his or her own SSN.
When does a successor trustee take over a trust?
He would also be called upon to serve should you become mentally incapacitated. Most trustmakers act as trustees of their revocable trusts, unlike with an irrevocable trust where someone else must be appointed. A successor trustee waits in the wings to take over when you can no longer manage the trust yourself.
When do you need an EIN for a trust?
The reason why the trust will need an EIN after the death of the grantor is that at that point, the trust no longer meets the grantor trust rules and therefore can no longer use the deceased grantor’s Social Security number. Going forward, the trust typically becomes irrevocable, and it will need to be treated as a separate taxable entity.
How to choose a bank as a trustee?
Investigate the bank options available to you. Determine whether the bank you choose has a trust department that is capable of handling the demands of your trust. Also, research the reputation of the bank’s trust department. Negotiate with the bank regarding the fees it will charge to be trustee.
Can a minor be a trustee of a trust?
Minors can’t legally own property, so your trust would continue to hold it for them until they reach an age you specify. Your successor trustee would make distributions to their guardian for their care per your instructions.