Tag Archives: trust corporation

Jeremy Eveland, Lawyer Jeremy Eveland, Jeremy Eveland Utah Attorney, Trustee Powers and Duties, trustees, trust, trustee, act, section, charity, beneficiaries, power, duty, investment, duties, powers, property, charities, person, part, trusts, income, interest, court, rule, agent, breach, land, law, case, investments, interests, assets, commission, care, subsection, functions, liability, instrument, capital, benefit, relation, circumstances, documents, trustee act, trust instrument, trust property, general power, trust deed, good faith, trust assets, trust funds, exclusion clause, trust documents, fiduciary duties, fiduciary duty, trust fund, standard investment criteria, marginal citations, case example, trust corporation, personal liability, care applies, life tenant, delegable functions, textual amendments, subordinate legislation, full disclosure, special knowledge, third party, third parties, same meaning, reasonable steps, personal interests, trust, trustees, beneficiaries, assets, income, investment, trust deed, tax, analytics, trust instrument, trustee act 2000, google, mind, trial, solicitor, news, trust fund, prudential, payment, property, irwin mitchell, estate planning, trust fund, trustee act 2000, trusts, breach of trust, trusts law, estate planning, dividends, cash dividends, settled land act 1925, held in trust, interest in possession trust, dividend income, stock dividend, discretionary trust, charitable trusts, tax, tax return, taxation

Trustee Powers and Duties

“Trustee Powers and Duties: Protecting Your Assets and Your Rights”

Introduction

Trustee powers and duties are an important part of the legal framework that governs the relationship between a trustee and the beneficiaries of a trust. A trustee is a fiduciary who is responsible for managing the trust assets and carrying out the wishes of the trust creator. The trustee has a duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and to manage the trust assets prudently. The trustee also has certain powers that allow them to make decisions and take action on behalf of the trust. This article will provide an overview of trustee powers and duties, including the fiduciary duties of a trustee, the powers of a trustee, and the limitations on a trustee’s powers.

What Are the Tax Implications of Trusts?

Trusts are a common estate planning tool used to manage assets and provide for beneficiaries. While trusts can be beneficial for estate planning, they also have tax implications that must be considered.

Trusts are subject to income tax, and the trust itself is responsible for filing a tax return. The trust must report all income, deductions, and credits to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Depending on the type of trust, the income may be taxed at the trust level or the beneficiary level.

Income taxed at the trust level is subject to the highest tax rate, which is currently 37%. Trusts may also be subject to the 3.8% net investment income tax. Trusts may also be subject to state income taxes.

Trusts may also be subject to estate taxes. The federal estate tax exemption is currently $11.58 million per person, and the top estate tax rate is 40%. Some states also impose estate taxes.

Trusts may also be subject to gift taxes. The federal gift tax exemption is currently $15,000 per person per year. The top gift tax rate is 40%. Some states also impose gift taxes.

Trusts can be a useful estate planning tool, but it is important to understand the tax implications of trusts before setting one up. It is also important to consult with a qualified tax professional to ensure that the trust is set up correctly and that all applicable taxes are paid.

Exploring the Subordinate Legislation of Trusts

Trusts are a legal arrangement that allows a person or organization to hold assets on behalf of another person or organization. The assets are held in trust for the benefit of the beneficiary, who is the person or organization that will receive the benefit of the trust. Trusts are governed by a variety of laws, including state and federal laws, as well as the terms of the trust itself.

The laws that govern trusts are known as subordinate legislation. Subordinate legislation is a type of law that is created by a government body, such as a legislature or court, to supplement or modify existing laws. Subordinate legislation is often used to provide more specific guidance on how a law should be applied in a particular situation.

When it comes to trusts, subordinate legislation is used to provide guidance on how the trust should be administered, how the assets should be managed, and how the trust should be terminated. Subordinate legislation also provides guidance on how the trust should be taxed, how the trust should be funded, and how the trust should be distributed.

Subordinate legislation can be found in a variety of sources, including state statutes, federal regulations, and court decisions. It is important to understand the specific laws that apply to a particular trust in order to ensure that the trust is administered properly.

In addition to the laws that govern trusts, there are also a variety of other documents that are used to create and administer trusts. These documents include trust agreements, trust deeds, and trust instruments. These documents provide additional guidance on how the trust should be administered and how the assets should be managed.

Jeremy Eveland, Lawyer Jeremy Eveland, Jeremy Eveland Utah Attorney, Trustee Powers and Duties, trustees, trust, trustee, act, section, charity, beneficiaries, power, duty, investment, duties, powers, property, charities, person, part, trusts, income, interest, court, rule, agent, breach, land, law, case, investments, interests, assets, commission, care, subsection, functions, liability, instrument, capital, benefit, relation, circumstances, documents, trustee act, trust instrument, trust property, general power, trust deed, good faith, trust assets, trust funds, exclusion clause, trust documents, fiduciary duties, fiduciary duty, trust fund, standard investment criteria, marginal citations, case example, trust corporation, personal liability, care applies, life tenant, delegable functions, textual amendments, subordinate legislation, full disclosure, special knowledge, third party, third parties, same meaning, reasonable steps, personal interests, trust, trustees, beneficiaries, assets, income, investment, trust deed, tax, analytics, trust instrument, trustee act 2000, google, mind, trial, solicitor, news, trust fund, prudential, payment, property, irwin mitchell, estate planning, trust fund, trustee act 2000, trusts, breach of trust, trusts law, estate planning, dividends, cash dividends, settled land act 1925, held in trust, interest in possession trust, dividend income, stock dividend, discretionary trust, charitable trusts, tax, tax return, taxation

Trustee Powers and Duties

It is important to understand the subordinate legislation that applies to trusts in order to ensure that the trust is administered properly and that the assets are managed in accordance with the terms of the trust. Understanding the subordinate legislation of trusts can help to ensure that the trust is administered in a manner that is consistent with the wishes of the settlor and the beneficiaries.

How to Avoid Personal Liability as a Trustee

As a trustee, it is important to understand the legal responsibilities and liabilities associated with the role. To avoid personal liability, trustees should take the following steps:

1. Understand the Trust: Before accepting the role of trustee, it is important to understand the terms of the trust and the duties and responsibilities associated with the role.

2. Follow the Trust Document: Trustees should follow the terms of the trust document and act in accordance with the wishes of the grantor.

3. Act in Good Faith: Trustees should act in good faith and with the best interests of the beneficiaries in mind.

4. Keep Records: Trustees should keep accurate and detailed records of all transactions and decisions made on behalf of the trust.

5. Seek Professional Advice: Trustees should seek professional advice when necessary to ensure that all decisions are made in accordance with the law.

6. Avoid Conflicts of Interest: Trustees should avoid any conflicts of interest and should not use the trust for their own personal gain.

7. Comply with Tax Obligations: Trustees should ensure that all tax obligations are met in a timely manner.

By following these steps, trustees can help to ensure that they are not held personally liable for any decisions or actions taken on behalf of the trust.

What Are the General Powers of a Trustee?

A trustee is a fiduciary who holds legal title to property for the benefit of another person or entity, known as the beneficiary. The trustee is responsible for managing the trust assets and carrying out the terms of the trust. Generally, trustees have the following powers:

1. Investment Powers: Trustees have the power to invest trust assets in accordance with the terms of the trust. This includes the power to buy and sell stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investments.

2. Distribution Powers: Trustees have the power to make distributions from the trust to the beneficiaries in accordance with the terms of the trust.

3. Administrative Powers: Trustees have the power to manage the trust assets, including the power to open and maintain bank accounts, pay bills, and file taxes.

4. Discretionary Powers: Trustees may have the power to make discretionary decisions regarding the trust assets, such as deciding when and how to make distributions to the beneficiaries.

5. Amendment Powers: Trustees may have the power to amend the trust, as long as the amendment is consistent with the terms of the trust.

6. Termination Powers: Trustees have the power to terminate the trust, as long as the termination is consistent with the terms of the trust.

Trustees are held to a high standard of care and must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. As such, trustees must exercise their powers in a prudent and responsible manner.

Exploring the Exclusion Clause in Trust Documents

Trust documents are legal documents that are used to protect the interests of the trustor, or the person who creates the trust. An exclusion clause is a provision in a trust document that allows the trustor to exclude certain assets from the trust. This clause can be used to protect the trustor’s assets from creditors, or to ensure that certain assets are not subject to the terms of the trust.

The exclusion clause is an important part of a trust document, as it allows the trustor to protect certain assets from the trust. This clause can be used to protect assets from creditors, or to ensure that certain assets are not subject to the terms of the trust. The exclusion clause can also be used to protect the trustor’s assets from being used for purposes other than those specified in the trust document.

When drafting a trust document, it is important to consider the exclusion clause carefully. The exclusion clause should be written in a way that clearly states which assets are excluded from the trust. It should also be written in a way that is easy to understand and enforce.

When drafting an exclusion clause, it is important to consider the purpose of the trust. For example, if the trust is intended to protect the trustor’s assets from creditors, the exclusion clause should be written in a way that clearly states which assets are excluded from the trust. If the trust is intended to ensure that certain assets are not subject to the terms of the trust, the exclusion clause should be written in a way that clearly states which assets are excluded from the trust.

It is also important to consider the potential implications of the exclusion clause. For example, if the exclusion clause is too broad, it may be difficult to enforce. Additionally, if the exclusion clause is too narrow, it may not provide the protection that the trustor intended.

When drafting an exclusion clause, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney. An attorney can help ensure that the exclusion clause is written in a way that is clear and enforceable. Additionally, an attorney can help ensure that the exclusion clause is tailored to the specific needs of the trustor.

The exclusion clause is an important part of a trust document, and it is important to consider it carefully when drafting a trust document. An experienced attorney can help ensure that the exclusion clause is written in a way that is clear and enforceable, and that it is tailored to the specific needs of the trustor.

What Are the Fiduciary Duties of a Trustee?

A trustee is a fiduciary who is responsible for managing the assets of a trust for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries. As a fiduciary, a trustee has a legal obligation to act in the best interests of the trust and its beneficiaries. This obligation is known as the fiduciary duty of loyalty.

The fiduciary duty of loyalty requires a trustee to act in good faith and with the utmost care, loyalty, and impartiality when managing the trust’s assets. This means that a trustee must not use the trust’s assets for their own benefit or the benefit of any other person or entity. A trustee must also avoid any conflicts of interest and must not engage in any self-dealing.

In addition to the fiduciary duty of loyalty, a trustee also has a duty to act prudently when managing the trust’s assets. This means that a trustee must exercise reasonable care, skill, and caution when making decisions about the trust’s assets. A trustee must also keep accurate records of all transactions and must ensure that the trust’s assets are invested in a prudent manner.

Finally, a trustee has a duty to act impartially when making decisions about the trust’s assets. This means that a trustee must not favor one beneficiary over another and must treat all beneficiaries equally. A trustee must also ensure that all beneficiaries are informed of their rights and must provide them with all relevant information about the trust.

In summary, a trustee has a legal obligation to act in the best interests of the trust and its beneficiaries. This obligation includes the fiduciary duties of loyalty, prudence, and impartiality. A trustee must act in good faith and with the utmost care, loyalty, and impartiality when managing the trust’s assets. A trustee must also exercise reasonable care, skill, and caution when making decisions about the trust’s assets and must act impartially when making decisions about the trust’s assets.

Understanding the Standard Investment Criteria for Trustees

Trustees of a trust are responsible for making decisions about investments on behalf of the trust. To ensure that these decisions are made in the best interests of the trust, trustees must adhere to a set of standard investment criteria.

The first criterion is that trustees must act with prudence and diligence. This means that trustees must exercise the same degree of care, skill, and caution that a prudent person would use in managing their own investments. Trustees must also consider the trust’s objectives, the risk associated with the investment, and the trust’s financial resources.

The second criterion is that trustees must diversify investments. This means that trustees should not put all of the trust’s assets into one type of investment. Instead, trustees should spread the trust’s assets across different types of investments, such as stocks, bonds, and cash. This helps to reduce the risk of loss if one type of investment performs poorly.

The third criterion is that trustees must consider liquidity. This means that trustees should ensure that the trust has enough liquid assets to meet its short-term needs. Liquid assets are those that can be quickly converted into cash, such as stocks and bonds.

The fourth criterion is that trustees must consider the trust’s tax position. This means that trustees should consider the tax implications of any investment decisions they make. For example, some investments may be subject to capital gains tax, while others may be exempt.

Finally, trustees must consider the trust’s long-term objectives. This means that trustees should consider the trust’s goals for the future and make investments that will help the trust achieve those goals.

By following these standard investment criteria, trustees can ensure that they are making decisions that are in the best interests of the trust.

Exploring the Powers and Duties of Trustees Under the Trustee Act 2000

Trustees are responsible for managing the assets of a trust, and they are subject to the Trustee Act 2000. This Act outlines the powers and duties of trustees, and it is important for trustees to understand their obligations under the Act.

The Trustee Act 2000 outlines the powers of trustees. These powers include the ability to invest trust assets, to borrow money, to make payments, and to enter into contracts. Trustees also have the power to appoint agents and to delegate certain duties to them. Trustees also have the power to make decisions about the trust’s assets, and to make distributions to beneficiaries.

The Trustee Act 2000 also outlines the duties of trustees. These duties include the duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries, to act with reasonable care and skill, to act honestly and in good faith, and to avoid conflicts of interest. Trustees must also keep accurate records of the trust’s assets and transactions, and they must keep beneficiaries informed of the trust’s activities.

Trustees must also comply with the terms of the trust deed. This document outlines the purpose of the trust, the powers of the trustees, and the rights of the beneficiaries. Trustees must also comply with any applicable laws and regulations.

The Trustee Act 2000 also outlines the liabilities of trustees. Trustees are liable for any losses or damages caused by their breach of duty or negligence. They are also liable for any taxes or other liabilities arising from the trust’s activities.

In summary, trustees have a number of powers and duties under the Trustee Act 2000. It is important for trustees to understand their obligations under the Act, and to ensure that they comply with the terms of the trust deed and any applicable laws and regulations.

Why You Should Hire an Estate Lawyer To Help You With a Trust

When it comes to managing a trust, it is important to have the right legal guidance. An estate lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in helping you to understand the complexities of trust law and ensure that your trust is properly managed. Here are some of the reasons why you should hire an estate lawyer to help you with a trust.

First, an estate lawyer can help you to understand the legal requirements of setting up and managing a trust. Trusts are complex legal documents that require a thorough understanding of the law. An estate lawyer can provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure that your trust is properly established and managed.

Second, an estate lawyer can help you to ensure that your trust is properly funded. A trust must be funded in order to be effective. An estate lawyer can help you to determine the best way to fund your trust and ensure that it is properly managed.

Third, an estate lawyer can help you to ensure that your trust is properly administered. A trust must be administered in accordance with the terms of the trust document. An estate lawyer can provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure that your trust is properly administered.

Finally, an estate lawyer can help you to ensure that your trust is properly distributed. A trust must be distributed in accordance with the terms of the trust document. An estate lawyer can provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure that your trust is properly distributed.

Hiring an estate lawyer to help you with a trust is a wise decision. An estate lawyer can provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure that your trust is properly established, funded, administered, and distributed. With the right legal guidance, you can ensure that your trust is managed in accordance with the law and that your beneficiaries receive the assets they are entitled to.

Areas We Serve

We serve individuals and businesses in the following locations:

Salt Lake City Utah
West Valley City Utah
Provo Utah
West Jordan Utah
Orem Utah
Sandy Utah
Ogden Utah
St. George Utah
Layton Utah
South Jordan Utah
Lehi Utah
Millcreek Utah
Taylorsville Utah
Logan Utah
Murray Utah
Draper Utah
Bountiful Utah
Riverton Utah
Herriman Utah
Spanish Fork Utah
Roy Utah
Pleasant Grove Utah
Kearns Utah
Tooele Utah
Cottonwood Heights Utah
Midvale Utah
Springville Utah
Eagle Mountain Utah
Cedar City Utah
Kaysville Utah
Clearfield Utah
Holladay Utah
American Fork Utah
Syracuse Utah
Saratoga Springs Utah
Magna Utah
Washington Utah
South Salt Lake Utah
Farmington Utah
Clinton Utah
North Salt Lake Utah
Payson Utah
North Ogden Utah
Brigham City Utah
Highland Utah
Centerville Utah
Hurricane Utah
South Ogden Utah
Heber Utah
West Haven Utah
Bluffdale Utah
Santaquin Utah
Smithfield Utah
Woods Cross Utah
Grantsville Utah
Lindon Utah
North Logan Utah
West Point Utah
Vernal Utah
Alpine Utah
Cedar Hills Utah
Pleasant View Utah
Mapleton Utah
Stansbury Par Utah
Washington Terrace Utah
Riverdale Utah
Hooper Utah
Tremonton Utah
Ivins Utah
Park City Utah
Price Utah
Hyrum Utah
Summit Park Utah
Salem Utah
Richfield Utah
Santa Clara Utah
Providence Utah
South Weber Utah
Vineyard Utah
Ephraim Utah
Roosevelt Utah
Farr West Utah
Plain City Utah
Nibley Utah
Enoch Utah
Harrisville Utah
Snyderville Utah
Fruit Heights Utah
Nephi Utah
White City Utah
West Bountiful Utah
Sunset Utah
Moab Utah
Midway Utah
Perry Utah
Kanab Utah
Hyde Park Utah
Silver Summit Utah
La Verkin Utah
Morgan Utah

Trustee Powers and Duties Consultation

When you need help with Trustee Powers and Duties call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472 for a consultation.

Jeremy Eveland
17 North State Street
Lindon UT 84042
(801) 613-1472

Home

Related Posts

Business Contract Attorney

Legal Compliance

Joint Tenancy

Strategic Business Plan

Quiet Title

Construction Disputes

Exit Strategies

Business Succession Lawyer Spanish Fork Utah

Sale of Company

Corporate Attorney St. George Utah

Asset Protection

Corporate Attorney Ogden Utah

Utah Code 76-10-2402

What Is Utah Code 34-56-101

What Is Utah Code 39-1-36(1)

What Is Utah Code 48-3a-409?

Executor Lawyer

Business Strategy and Consulting

Asset Purchase Agreement

Business Succession Lawyer Roy Utah

Corporate Attorney Sandy Utah

Limited Liability Companies

LLC Lawyer

Business Lawyer St George Utah

Estate Planning Lawyer Ogden Utah

Business Succession Lawyer Pleasant Grove Utah

Market Analysis For Business Antitrust Merger

Trustee Powers and Duties

Business Lawyer Logan Utah

Cook Island Trust Lawyer

Cook Island Trust Lawyer

Cook Island Trust Lawyer

A Cook Island trust is a popular form of asset protection trust used by people in the United States and other countries around the world. Like other trusts, the Cook Island trust is a legal entity that allows the settlor (the person creating the trust) to transfer assets to the trust and protect them from creditors, lawsuits, and other legal action. The Cook Island trust also offers additional benefits, such as tax advantages and the potential for asset growth.

The process of drafting a Cook Island trust can be complicated and requires the help of an experienced lawyer. A lawyer can guide the settlor through the process and ensure that the trust is properly drafted and set up. A lawyer can also provide advice on how best to structure the trust and any additional steps that may be needed to protect the trust assets from creditors, lawsuits, and other legal action.

When drafting a Cook Island trust, the lawyer will first need to review the settlor’s financial situation. This includes reviewing the settlor’s assets, liabilities, and other financial information. The lawyer will also need to consider the settlor’s estate planning objectives and any other relevant factors.

Once the lawyer has completed the review, they will need to review the Cook Islands Trust Deed. This document sets out the rules, regulations, and responsibilities of the trust. The lawyer will need to advise the settlor on any additional steps that may be needed to ensure the trust is set up properly.

The lawyer will then need to ensure that the trust is properly funded. This may involve transferring assets from the settlor to the trust, setting up an LLC to hold the trust assets, or making any other arrangements necessary to ensure that the trust is properly funded. The lawyer may also need to advise the settlor on any additional fees, such as transaction fees and courier fees, that may be required to transfer the assets to the trust.

Cook Island Trust Lawyer, trust, cook, protection, assets, asset, trustee, trusts, offshore, islands, llc, court, settlor, law, fees, jurisdiction, island, tax, companies, case, laws, beneficiaries, trustees, estate, country, bank, business, creditors, clients, structure, people, world, years, courts, person, order, money, services, jurisdictions, debtor, requirements, offshore trust, cook islands, asset protection, offshore asset protection, cook island trust, nevis llc, additional fees, asset protection trust, trust assets, united states, trust deed, new zealand, due diligence, asset protection trusts, offshore trustee, real estate, trust companies, transaction fee, courier fees, offshore trusts, court order, blake harris law, trust corporation, cook islands trusts, trust protector, legal action, cook island, legal duress, fraudulent conveyance, reasonable doubt, trust, cook islands, assets, asset protection, settlor, fees, llc, beneficiaries, offshore trust, tax, offshore, creditors, due diligence, jurisdiction, trustees, trust deed, lawsuits, nevis, attorney, clients, investment, transaction fee, courier, asset protection trusts, sue, asset protection, aml, llcs, money laundering, lawsuit, trust law, offshore companies, offshore, fraudulent conveyance, financing of terrorism, trusts, offshore trust, trust fund, stock,

Once the trust is properly funded, the lawyer will need to review and sign any additional documents that may be required to set up the trust. This includes any trust protector agreements, trust company agreements, and any other documents necessary to ensure the trust is properly set up.

The lawyer will also need to advise the settlor on any additional requirements that may be necessary to ensure the trust is in compliance with the Cook Islands Trust Law. This may include conducting due diligence on any offshore trustees, conducting an anti-money laundering (AML) review, and filing any required documents with the Cook Islands Trust Office.

Finally, the lawyer will need to advise the settlor on any legal action that may be taken against the trust. This may include filing for a court order to freeze the trust assets, suing any creditors that may be attempting to collect on the trust assets, or taking other legal action to protect the trust assets from creditors and lawsuits.

By using a lawyer to draft a Cook Island trust, the settlor can be sure that the trust is properly set up and that their assets are properly protected. The lawyer will be able to provide the settlor with valuable advice on how to structure the trust and any additional steps that may be needed to ensure the trust is in compliance with the Cook Islands Trust Law. In addition, the lawyer can provide advice on any legal action that may be taken against the trust, such as filing for a court order to freeze the trust assets or taking other legal action to protect the trust assets from creditors and lawsuits.

Asset Protection with a Cook Island TrustWhat is an Offshore Trust?

An offshore trust is a type of trust that is located outside of the settlor’s home country, typically in a jurisdiction with favorable tax and legal laws. Offshore trusts are commonly used for asset protection, estate planning, and tax planning, among other uses. An offshore trust can be created in many different countries and jurisdictions, including the Cook Islands.

Benefits of a Cook Islands Trust

A Cook Islands trust, also known as an asset protection trust, is an offshore trust that is located in the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands offers a variety of benefits that make it an attractive option for asset protection. First, the Cook Islands has a well-developed trust law that provides extensive protection to the settlor and the trust assets. The trust assets are also protected from the jurisdiction of foreign courts and creditors, and the Cook Islands also has favorable tax laws. Additionally, the Cook Islands has a robust and experienced trust industry, with a variety of trust companies and trust administrators that can assist with the creation and management of a trust.

Legal Protection of a Cook Islands Trust

The Cook Islands provides a variety of legal protections for the trust assets. First, it is important to note that the trust assets are protected from the jurisdiction of foreign courts and creditors. In addition, the Cook Islands has a number of laws that provide additional protection to the trust assets. For example, the Cook Islands Trusts Act states that the settlor is not liable for any debts or other obligations of the trust, and that the trust assets are not subject to any claims or legal actions. Additionally, the Cook Islands has a fraudulent conveyance law, which prohibits the transfer of assets in order to avoid a creditor or legal action. Lastly, the Cook Islands has a law that prohibits legal duress, which is when a person is forced to enter into a contract or agreement under threat.

Asset protection is an increasingly important aspect of financial planning, and the use of an offshore trust, such as a Cook Islands trust, is an effective way to protect a person’s assets from legal risks. The Cook Islands offers a variety of benefits that make it an attractive option for asset protection, including a well-developed trust law, protection from the jurisdiction of foreign courts and creditors, favorable tax laws, and a robust and experienced trust industry. Additionally, the Cook Islands has a number of laws that provide additional protections for the trust assets, such as a fraudulent conveyance law and a law that prohibits legal duress. For these reasons, a Cook Islands trust is an effective way to protect a person’s assets from legal risks.

Different Trust Options

A Trust, generally, is a legal entity that can hold title to property. There are three parties to a Trust agreement: the Trustmaker who creates the Trust, the Beneficiary who receives the benefit of the property held in the Trust, and the Trustee who manages the Trust. The property that is transferred to and held by the Trust becomes the Trust principal. If you create a Trust within your Will, it is called a Testamentary Trust. If you create a Trust while you are alive, it is called an inter vivos or Living Trust.

While you are alive, you usually will receive all the income of the Trust and as much of the principal as you request. Upon your death, the Trust assets are distributed to your Beneficiaries in accordance with your directions contained in the Trust agreement, or it can continue for specified purposes for a period of time.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Trust

The Main Advantages of a Living Trust:

• If you want or need to have someone else manage your property and pay your bills in case of illness or disability, the Living Trust is an ideal estate planning tool for you.

• Avoiding probate which can save time and money, especially if you own real estate in different states.

• Because a Living Trust is not filed in Court, its provisions are private. This differs from a Will, which must be filed with the Probate Court and becomes public.

• Reduction of delays in distribution of your property after you pass away.

• Continuity of management of your property after your death or incapacity/disability.

Disadvantages of a Living Trust

• There are usually more initial costs in setting up a Living Trust as compared to a Will because a Living Trusts generally requires more extensive, technical and complex drafting.

• “Funding”, which is the process of re-titling your assets in the name of your Living Trust, takes time.

• Administering the Trust can be expense depending on who is acting as Trustee.

Most Common Types of Trusts

Even though there are several different types of Trusts to choose from, you don’t have to be worried about picking the one that’s best for your needs and situation. Below, we’ve listed all the most common types of Trusts, explained in detail, so you know exactly what you need. First, you should understand the basic characteristics and parts of a Trust:

• Grantor – The Trust creator (also known as Settlor or Trustor)

• Trustee

• Beneficiary

Revocable Living Trusts

Revocable living trusts (inter vivos trusts) are created during the lifetime of the grantor. They can be modified or revoked entirely at the instruction of the grantor. The grantor often serves as the initial trustee. They can transfer property into the trust and remove property from the trust during their lifetime. A revocable trust becomes an irrevocable trust upon the death of the grantor.

Pros of a Revocable Living Trust

• Assets held in the trust at the time of death avoid the probate process. They can be distributed immediately. The use of a pour-over will transfers any un-transferred assets into the trust after death.

• Minimizes the value of the taxable estate because assets held in trust are not part of the deceased’s estate.

• Ensures financial privacy after death.

• Allows a trustee or successor trustee to manage assets if the grantor becomes incapacitated.

• Less costly to create than many other types of trusts.

• In community property states the inheritance provided by the trust is a separate asset of the beneficiary. It does not become part of community property unless the beneficiary makes it so.

• Allows the grantor to control how and when beneficiaries receive their inheritance.

Cons of a Living Trust

• A revocable trust does not provide asset protection. Because assets remain available to the grantor, they also remain available to the grantor’s creditors.

• A revocable trust may interfere with the grantor’s ability to access Social Security/Medicare assistance with long-term care expenses if needed later in life.

Example of a Revocable Trust: Totten Trusts

A “Totten trust” has also been called a “poor man’s trust.” This is due to a written trust document typically not being involved and it often costs the trust maker nothing to establish.

A Totten trust is created during the lifetime of the grantor by:

• Depositing money into an account

• Having the grantor named as the trustee

• Having the beneficiary be another individual or entity

A Totten trust uses financial institutions for bank accounts and certificates of deposit. A Totten trust cannot be used with real property. To create a Totten trust, the title on the account should include “In Trust For,” “Payable on Death To,” “As Trustee For,” or the identifying initials for each, “IFF,” “POD,” “ATF.” If this language is not included, the beneficiary may not be identifiable.

The gift is not completed until the grantor’s death or until the grantor passes along the account as a gift during the grantor’s lifetime. Until then, the beneficiary cannot access the money. Totten trust assets avoid probate and gift taxes.

Irrevocable Trust

An irrevocable trust can be created during the grantor’s lifetime (also called an inter vivos trust) or after death. Once assets and property are transferred into an irrevocable trust, the grantor cannot take them out of the trust. A trustee who is not the grantor manages the trust. Often the trustee is a financial professional or a business.

Pros of an Irrevocable Trust

• Assets held in the trust at the time of death avoid the probate process. A pour-over will transfer assets after death. Assets can be distributed immediately.

• Reduces and can even eliminate the cost of wealth transfer, such as probate fees, gift taxes, and estate taxes.

• Ensures financial privacy after death.

• Because assets in an irrevocable trust are unreachable to the grantor, they are also unreachable to creditors of the grantor and cannot be taken should the grantor lose a lawsuit.

• The grantor to controls how and when beneficiaries receive their inheritance.

• In community property states, the inheritance provided by the trust is a separate (not community) asset of the beneficiary and does not become part of community property unless the beneficiary makes it so.

Cons of an Irrevocable Trust

• It cannot be changed once it is implemented. Beneficiaries named in the trust will remain beneficiaries. Terms in the trust will remain the same even though the beneficiaries may have experienced changes in their lives.

• The grantor cannot access trust assets if they need them later.

• More costly to create than a living trust and requires legal help.

Example of an Irrevocable Trust: Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILET)

An irrevocable life insurance trust (also called an ILET) owns the life insurance policy of the grantor. The trust pays the life insurance premium each month, although the grantor funds the trust so that it can make the payments. The grantor’s estate is reduced in value as it transfers money to the trust to make these payments.

Usually, when a life insurance policy pays out, the named beneficiary receives a lump sum amount. That money could be seized by the beneficiary’s creditors, could get a beneficiary kicked off government assistance or Medicaid, or could be wasted if the beneficiary is not good at handling money. Depending on the terms of the trust, an ILET can distribute insurance money immediately or the ILET can hold and manage the money and distribute it over a period of time.

Trusts for Married Couples

Most people assume that when one spouse dies, the surviving spouse inherits everything. That is not always the case. Ensuring the remaining spouse is cared for is one reason why married couples choose to establish a marital trust.

When a couple chooses to set up a trust fund, they have two immediate decisions to make:

• Whether to set up a joint trust or separate trusts

• Whether the trust is just to transfer assets to the surviving spouse or whether it should also transfer assets to remaining heirs after the death of the second spouse

A joint marital trust is a single trust that covers both members of the couple. It transfers assets between the two spouses and no one else. It is less complicated to set up and maintain and less costly to create.

Separate Marital Trusts: AB Trusts and QTIP Trusts

Separate marital trusts, in particular AB trusts and QTIP trusts, offer some additional benefits:

• Both spouses can pass along assets to separate heirs (as well as the surviving spouse).

• The surviving spouse has use of marital assets and property for the remainder of their lifetime.

• The deceased spouse’s trust becomes an irrevocable trust upon death, which offers greater protection from creditors.

• While trust assets can pass to a surviving spouse tax-free, when the surviving spouse dies, remaining assets over the $11.2 million federal estate-tax exemption limit would be taxable to heirs. The second spouse can double their federal estate tax exemption through the use of a credit shelter trust (CST). (The amount of this tax exemption limit is only in effect through 2025.)

How Does an AB Trust Differ From a QTIP (Qualified Terminable Interest Property) Trust?

Upon the death of the first spouse, the marital estate is split in two. The “A part” of the trust is a survivor’s trust, which the surviving spouse can use as they see fit. The “B trust” is a bypass trust (or a credit shelter trust) that will transfer assets to heirs.

With an AB trust, the surviving spouse has some access to funds in the B portion of the trust, although they cannot change the terms of the B trust. The surviving may be able to use funds for health, education, or to keep a particular living standard. After death, funds from the B trust, and remaining funds from the A trust pass on to the couple’s heirs.

A QTIP trust is often the preferred marital trust when one or both spouses had children from a prior marriage and want to ensure their inheritance. The surviving spouse has their own trust but can only access the interest income from the B trust, none of the principal. Upon the second spouse’s death, the principal transfers to the heirs in full.

Trusts that Benefit Specific Types of People

In some situations, you may want a trust that benefits a unique circumstance. Typically this involves a minor or loved one with special needs, seeking to skip a generation, or controlling how the inherited money is used.

Special Needs Trust

Ordinarily, when a person is receiving government benefits like Medicare or Medicaid, an inheritance or financial gift could negatively impact their eligibility to receive such benefits. But Social Security rules allow a disabled beneficiary to benefit from a special needs trust, as long as they are not the trustee. They cannot control the amount or the frequency of trust distributions and cannot revoke the trust. Usually, a special needs trust has a provision that terminates the trust in the event that it could be used to make the beneficiary ineligible for government benefits.

Benefits of Special Needs Trusts

Special needs trusts can be used to provide for the comfort and happiness of a disabled person when those needs are not being provided by any public or private agency. The list is quite extensive and includes (but is not limited to) medical and dental expenses, education, transportation (including vehicle purchase), computer equipment, vacations, movies, money to purchase gifts, payments for a companion, and other items to enhance self-esteem.

Parents of a disabled child can establish a special needs trust as part of their general estate plan and not worry that their child will be prevented from receiving benefits when they are not there to care for the child. Disabled persons who expect an inheritance can establish a special needs trust themselves, provided that another person or entity is named as trustee.

Generation-Skipping Trust

A generation-skipping trust transfers assets from grandparents to grandchildren, or other persons at least 37 1/2 years younger than the grantor. It cannot be used to transfer assets to a younger spouse. It bypasses the prior generation in order to avoid estate taxes. Under the recent tax law changes, the tax exemption for this trust doubled, to $11.2 million for singles and $22.4 million for married couples. It will revert back to $5 million in 2026.

Spendthrift Trust

A spendthrift trust is an ordinary trust intended to transfer and protect assets. But it has one particular feature suited to a particular type of beneficiary. Typically, an heir can use their interest in the trust as collateral for loans. With a spendthrift trust, that is not allowed. Not everyone can manage a sudden influx of money. A grantor may choose to set up a spendthrift trust if their beneficiary has problems with drugs, alcohol, or gambling, or if they have repeatedly mismanaged their money.

Types of Charitable Trusts

Charitable trusts are established to allow a donor to leave all or a portion of their assets to a charity or nonprofit. A charitable trust can be set up during the donor’s lifetime (inter vivos) or after death (testamentary).

There are two main types of charitable trust:

• Charitable remainder trust (CRT)

• Charitable lead trust (CLT)

Depending on how the trust is structured it can reduce income tax, reduce or delay capital gains tax, reduce estate taxes or reduce gift taxes.

Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)

A charitable remainder trust provides the donor with income from the investment of the trust assets during their lifetime. After the donor dies, the remaining assets are donated to the public charity or private foundation for which the trust was established. If the trust makes regular payments of a fixed amount, it is a charitable remainder annuity trust. If payments vary as a percentage of the trust’s principal, then it is called a “charitable remainder unitrust.”

Charitable Lead Trust (CLT)

A charitable lead trust first makes payment to the charity for a predetermined amount of time. When the term of the trust is complete, the remainder goes back to the donor or to their heirs.

Less Common Types of Trusts

Unique situations can call for specific types of trusts. Providing for a pet is a common reason to create a trust. You can also do things like protect assets from creditors and pass on family guns. In some cases, the courts can rule that a trust was implied even if it was never created.

Pet Trust

Many people consider their pets to be members of the family. A pet trust sets aside financial support for a pet and the trustee is responsible for ensuring that care is provided that meets the terms of the trust.

Asset Protection Trust

The purpose of an asset protection trust is to insulate assets from creditor attacks. Often set up in foreign countries, the assets do not always need to be transferred to the foreign jurisdiction. The trust is irrevocable for a certain number of years, then the assets are returned to the grantor, provided there is no current risk of creditor attack.

Gun Trust or NFA Trust

A gun trust is a revocable trust that holds title to a person or family’s guns. It allows the legal transfer of ownership of guns and gun accessories, like suppressors, that are restricted under the National Firearms Act. These are also called NFA trusts. A gun trust can hold title to other weapons as well and can protect a firearm collection.

Constructive Trust

Even though a formal trust was never made, a judge can find that an implied trust existed based on the intention of the property owner that certain property is used for a particular purpose or go to a particular person. A constructive trust is established by a court.

Cook Island Trust Lawyer Consultation

When you need legal help with a Cook Island Trust, call Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD (801) 613-1472.

Jeremy Eveland
17 North State Street
Lindon UT 84042
(801) 613-1472

Home

Recent Posts

Business Law

Business Lawyer

Contract Law

Offer and Acceptance

The Utah Uniform Partnership Act

The 10 Essential Elements of Business Succession Planning

Business Succession Law

Cook Island Trust Lawyer

Utah Business Law

Advertising Law

Real Estate Law

Law Firm

Legal Contract

Intellectual Property

Corporate Lawyer