In the strict legal sense, "busting" a trust means ending it. More formally called dissolving or terminating a trust, this process closes the trust, transfers its assets out, and distributes them directly to the beneficiaries. Once dissolved, the trust no longer exists, and beneficiaries typically gain direct ownership and control of the assets.

That said, every trust is unique. There are many ways to increase a beneficiary's understanding, involvement, and decision-making authority without dissolving the trust. Each approach depends on the trust's legal terms, as well as the individual and families’ goals, relationships, and circumstances.

For our group, "busting" a trust doesn't necessarily mean dissolving it. Instead, we use the term to mean demystifying the trust: understanding how it works as a legal structure, how it holds and manages assets, and what it means for each person connected to it.

Our goal is to help you gain clarity, confidence, and agency, whether the trust ultimately remains in place or not. 

This group will be facilitated by Susanna Penfield of Chosen Family Office, who brings her own experience navigating and dissolving an inherited trust fund for reinvestment and redistribution (as shared through The BUSTED Chronicles)

Additional and specialized support will be provided based on group needs, with external guidance and guest speaking provided by inheritance and estate law experts, as well as other “trust busting” peers. 

Participants will have the option to engage with short readings, journaling prompts, or peer exchanges to deepen their understanding and intentions.

There will also be more logistical and technical “homework” when it comes to deciphering documents and limitations. 

This is Chosen Family Office’s second trust bust study group. Much of the study group will be similar, and there are some changes based on feedback from last group’s members.