Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California
buying guns after a trust is started
I want to start a trust. I am a gun collector and want to add more guns to my collection after I start the trust. On form 4473 when it ask fr a name what name do I put down, my name or the name of the trust
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: buying guns after a trust is started
You would still fill in the form using your name. You put a provision in the trust that the guns are the property of the trust. But, as the trustee of the trust and as the gun purchaser, your name and information is used on Form 4473.
Re: buying guns after a trust is started
I disagree with the above remark. There is no need to make a one-step process a two-step process. The gun will eventually be transferred to your trust, so why not make the transfer sooner rather than later. Thus, putting it in the trust's name (assuming you have one in place) would be prudent.
Re: buying guns after a trust is started
I don't think Form 4473 has anything to do with how you hold title to the firearm- it's the "background check" form. So, the first responder is probably correct, you "assign" your firearms and other tangible personal property to your living trust and update from time to time.