GWYNNE WIATROWSKI GUZZEAU, LLC

Trusts

The Who, What, Why, Where and When of Trusts.

  • WHO:  A trust is a relationship between YOU, as the Grantor or the person who owns an asset, and a TRUSTEE, the person who will receive legal title to your asset.  

 

  • WHAT:  A trust is funded when assets are transferred into the name of the trust.  The trust document sets forth the terms, conditions and obligations according to the wishes of the Grantor who creates the trust and then funds the trust by transferring her assets to the Trustee.

 

  • WHY:  A trust is a flexible estate planning tool to address a variety of estate planning concerns.
    • Trusts allow you to direct the control of your assets after your disability or death.
    • Trusts can provide creditor protection to the beneficiaries for the assets held in trust.
    • Trusts can facilitate marital deduction and estate tax planning.
    • Trusts can accommodate the special needs of your beneficiaries, whether they are related to medical disabilities, substance abuse or other issues.
    • Trusts can be structured to remove assets from your estate; thereby decreasing the size of your estate.
    • Trusts can carry-out your charitable intentions while still benefitting you and/or your heirs.
    • Trusts can be effective long-term care planning tools that provide direction about your care in the event of a disability.

 

  • WHERE:  Most trusts are created and maintained in accordance with the laws of the state in which the Grantor resides.  Trustees typically have the power to change the location of the trust in the event that you relocate. 

 

  • WHEN:  If you are curious about the how a trust can meet your goals and fit with your circumstances, then come on in and we can talk about what kind of trust would work for you.