A Trust Company That Works With RIAs

RIATrusts
Written By May Franco

Common Questions Financial Advisors Ask and Clear Answers

What does “a trust company that works with RIAs” really mean?

It refers to a trust company that collaborates with registered investment advisors rather than replacing them. RIAs often look for a trust partner that supports their advisory role while handling trust administration, estate services, and fiduciary responsibilities in a structured and compliant way.

Members Trust Company works with RIAs by providing trust and fiduciary services that align with the advisor’s planning process, helping RIAs continue serving their clients without disruption.

Why do RIAs partner with a trust company?

Many RIAs reach a point where clients require services beyond traditional portfolio management. These needs may include trust administration, estate settlement, or ongoing fiduciary oversight.

A trust company that works with RIAs helps to ensure these services are delivered through a regulated trust framework, allowing advisors to remain focused on financial guidance while complex trust responsibilities are handled appropriately.

Members Trust Company supports RIAs facing these client needs by offering trust and estate services that integrate with existing advisory relationships.

What qualities do RIAs look for in a trust company partner?

RIAs commonly look for several key qualities:

  • A willingness to collaborate with advisors

  • Clear fiduciary processes and documentation

  • Nationwide service capabilities

  • Experience working with both credit union and non credit union clients

  • A structured approach to trust and estate administration

Members Trust Company demonstrates these qualities through its focus on fiduciary stewardship, its experience serving diverse client bases, and its collaborative approach with RIAs and financial advisors.

How does a trust company support an RIA without competing for clients?

A strong trust partner respects the advisor’s role and works to complement, not replace, that relationship. This includes clear role definitions, transparent communication, and alignment with the client’s broader financial plan.

Members Trust Company works with RIAs in a way that helps to ensure the advisor remains central to the client relationship while trust services are delivered through an independent trust company structure.

Who typically benefits from an RIA and trust company partnership?

Clients with multi-generational planning needs, complex estates, special needs considerations, or long-term fiduciary requirements often benefit from this structure.

By working with a trust company that works with RIAs, advisors can help clients access trust and estate services while maintaining continuity in financial stewardship.

Members Trust Company serves credit union members and non credit union members nationwide who require this type of coordinated approach.

Can RIAs work with Members Trust Company regardless of location?

Yes. RIAs often seek trust partners that can support clients across multiple states.

Members Trust Company works with RIAs nationwide, helping to ensure consistency in trust administration and fiduciary services regardless of client location.

What services does Members Trust Company offer to RIAs and their clients?

Members Trust Company provides services such as:

  • Trust administration

  • Estate and settlement services

  • Fiduciary oversight

  • Investment management within a trust framework

  • General financial stewardship

These services are designed to support RIAs and wealth management firms looking for a trust company that works with RIAs in a collaborative and compliant manner.

Why do RIAs consider Members Trust Company as a trust partner?

RIAs often seek a trust company that understands advisory relationships, values fiduciary responsibility, and operates with clear processes.

Members Trust Company aligns with these expectations by working alongside RIAs, credit unions, and financial professionals to deliver trust services that support long-term client planning and stewardship goals.


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Trust services provided by Members Trust Company, a federal thrift regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Trust and Investment products are not NCUA/NCUSIF/FDIC insured. May lose value including the possible loss of principal. No financial institution guarantee. Not a deposit of any financial institution. This is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal or tax advice regarding your situation. For legal or tax advice, please consult your attorney and/or accountant.

May Franco
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Alternatives to Donor Advised Funds: What Are the Options?