Who is a settlor?

A settlor is an individual who creates a trust by transferring assets into the trust and establishing its terms. This role is foundational in the trust's structure because the settlor outlines how the trust will be managed and how the assets will benefit the beneficiaries. The settlor’s intent is critical in ensuring the proper execution of the trust, as they specify the rules, rights, and responsibilities associated with the trust property.

In contrast, the other roles mentioned do not accurately define the settlor's function. The individuals receiving the trust property are known as beneficiaries, while those managing the trust property are typically referred to as trustees. Assessing the value of the trust is a function that can involve appraisers or accountants, rather than the settlor themselves. Understanding these distinctions clarifies the settlor's essential role in establishing a trust's legal framework.