What is a Certification of Trust in California and When Do You Need One?
A Certification of Trust (also called a Certificate of Trust) is a document authorized by California Probate Code Section 18100.5 that confirms a trust's existence and the trustee's authority without disclosing the full trust document. It includes the trust's name and date, the grantor's identity, the acting trustee's identity, the trust's relevant powers (for real property, the power to sell and convey real estate), and a statement that the trust has not been revoked. A California estate attorney prepares this document.
Going Deeper
Title companies handling trust property sales require a Certification of Trust before completing the transaction — they need to verify that the trust exists, that the trustee has authority to sell, and that the power to convey real property is specifically granted. Banks require it to allow trustees to operate trust accounts. Providing the Certification of Trust promptly when escrow opens prevents delays. Running out of copies or failing to have one ready is one of the most common causes of extended escrow timelines in trust sales.
Wolf Allies connects trustees, executors, and families with agents who have deep experience in California trust, probate, and estate property sales — at no cost to you.
Find My Specialist →