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On May 28, 2026, Vermont enacted new legislation aimed at simplifying the estate planning process for residents of the state. The Trusts and Estates Simplification Act, which was signed into law by Governor Jane Wilson, is set to go into effect on January 1, 2027.The new law includes several key provisions that will make it easier for individuals to create and manage trusts and estates in Vermont. One of the most significant changes is the establishment of a standardized process for creating trusts, which will streamline the process and reduce the paperwork and red tape that can often be involved in estate planning.Additionally, the Trusts and Estates Simplification Act includes provisions for digital wills and trusts, allowing individuals to create and manage their estate plans online. This will make it easier for Vermont residents to update their wills and trusts as their circumstances change and ensure that their wishes are accurately reflected in their estate plans.The new law also includes provisions for trust protectors, who are individuals designated to oversee the administration of trusts and ensure that the wishes of the trust creator are carried out. Trust protectors will have the authority to make decisions on behalf of the trust creator if they are unable to do so themselves, providing an added layer of protection for individuals creating trusts in Vermont.Overall, the Trusts and Estates Simplification Act is designed to make the estate planning process more accessible and efficient for Vermont residents. By streamlining the process and providing new options for creating and managing trusts and estates, the legislation aims to ensure that individuals can more easily and effectively plan for their futures and provide for their loved ones.The new law has been met with widespread support from estate planning professionals and residents alike, who see it as a much-needed update to Vermont's trust and estate laws. With the Trusts and Estates Simplification Act set to go into effect in 2027, Vermont residents can look forward to a more streamlined and user-friendly estate planning process in the years to come.