What is the recipient of a trust's assets upon the trustor's death called?

The recipient of a trust's assets upon the trustor's death is referred to as the beneficiary. In the context of trusts, a beneficiary is the individual or entity designated by the trustor to receive benefits or assets as outlined in the trust agreement. This role is central to the functioning of a trust, as the beneficiary is intended to benefit from the trustor's arrangements, which may include financial assets, property, or other resources.

The other roles outlined in the options—such as the executor, trustee, and guardian—serve different purposes. The executor typically handles the probate process and oversees the distribution of a deceased person's estate according to a will, while the trustee is responsible for managing the trust during the trustor’s lifetime and ensuring that the terms of the trust are fulfilled. The guardian generally refers to a person who is given legal responsibility for a minor or incapacitated person, rather than for assets, which distinctly separates their function from that of a beneficiary. Understanding these roles clarifies the specific responsibilities and entitlements each title holds within the legal context of trusts and estates.