A certification of trust is a document that contains relevant details about an established trust containing real property. It is governed by Texas Property Code Sec. 114.086. A certification of trust validates the existence of the trust by identifying its full name, the date it was established, the names of the settlor (grantor) and trustees, the trustees' powers, and other details as needed. This is important because it allows the actual trust agreement, which is generally not recorded, to remain private.

The form is executed by the trustee and signed by the trustee and grantor (who can be the same person) and recorded in the office of the county recorder in any Texas county in which all or a portion of the real property is located. In order to facilitate a transfer of real property into a trust, financial institutions may require the trustee to furnish a certification of trust. In addition, third parties may request a certification of trust to confirm the trustee has the authority to transfer real property out of the trust.

(Texas Certificate of Trust Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our certificate of trust forms are specifically formatted for each county in Texas.

After selecting your county, you'll receive forms that meet all local recording requirements, ensuring your documents will be accepted without delays or rejection fees.

How to Use This Form

Select your county from the list above
Download the county-specific form
Fill in the required information
Have the document notarized if required
Record with your county recorder's office

Common Uses for Certificate of Trust

Transfer property between family members
Add or remove names from property titles
Transfer property into or out of trusts
Correct errors in previously recorded deeds
Gift property to others

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