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In Vermont, trust and estate planning has seen significant changes following the introduction of new legislation on January 12, 2026. The new laws aim to streamline and modernize the process of administering trusts and estates, providing greater flexibility and protection for beneficiaries.One of the key changes introduced by the new legislation is the establishment of a trust registry, which will serve as a centralized database for all trust documents and related information. This registry will make it easier for trustees and beneficiaries to access and track trust assets, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the management of trusts.Additionally, the new laws have extended the statute of limitations for contesting a will or trust from three to five years. This change is aimed at providing beneficiaries with a longer window of opportunity to challenge the validity of a will or trust, ensuring that their rights are protected.In terms of estate planning, the new legislation has introduced provisions for electronic wills, allowing individuals to create and execute wills online. This will make the process of estate planning more accessible and convenient for Vermont residents, particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.Furthermore, the new laws have updated the rules governing the distribution of digital assets in the event of a person's death. Executors are now required to have access to the deceased's online accounts and digital files, ensuring that important information and assets are properly managed and distributed according to the deceased's wishes.Overall, the recent changes to Vermont's trust and estate laws represent a significant step forward in modernizing and improving the administration of trusts and estates. These new provisions aim to provide greater protection and flexibility for beneficiaries, while also ensuring that the process of estate planning is more accessible and efficient for Vermont residents.