depend on how your trust is written

After one spouse dies, the surviving spouse usually becomes the sole trustee and controls the assets in a joint living trust. Depending on the trust's structure, the deceased spouse's share may be transferred to a separate, irrevocable trust for tax planning, or the surviving spouse may have full control over the combined assets. It is important to contact an attorney to ensure the trust is administered correctly, including obtaining a death certificate and creating the new trust if necessary.