Grantor

Also known as: Settlor, Trustor

In one sentence

The person who creates a trust and transfers property into it.

Plain English

The grantor (also called a settlor or trustor) is the original owner who decides to place assets into a trust rather than pass them directly through a will. The grantor writes the trust document, specifies who will manage it (the trustee), who will benefit from it (the beneficiaries), and how distributions will be made. The grantor may retain control during their lifetime in a revocable trust or give up control entirely in an irrevocable trust.

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Example

James, a successful business owner, decides to create a trust for his children's education. As the grantor, James transfers $500,000 into the trust, names a bank as trustee, and specifies that funds can be used for college expenses.

Used in a sentence

“The grantor must sign the trust document and ensure that property titles are properly transferred into the trust's name.”

Related terms

Trustee

The person or institution legally responsible for managing assets held in a trust.

Beneficiary

A person or organization entitled to receive money or property from a trust, will, or insurance policy.

Trust Instrument

The legal document that creates a trust and outlines how assets will be managed and distributed.

Irrevocable Trust

A trust that cannot be changed, modified, or terminated once created without beneficiary consent.

Revocable Trust

A trust that the grantor can modify, amend, or terminate during their lifetime.

Probate

The court process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person's estate.

Intestate Succession

The legal process of distributing a deceased person's property when they leave no valid will.

Elective Share

A surviving spouse's right to claim a portion of the deceased spouse's estate despite the will.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.