Understanding Trust Services

A simple breakdown for you!

If you find yourself scratching your head when you hear the term "trust," don't worry- you're not alone. Whether you're familiar with the concept or are just starting to explore, this blog will help you navigate the world of trust.

What Is a Trust?

A trust is a fiduciary agreement in which one party, known as the trustor, gives another party, known as the trustee, the right to hold title to property or assets for the benefit of a third party, known as the beneficiary.

Trusts Provide:

Provide legal protection for the trustor's assets
Ensure assets are managed and distributed based on the trustor's wishes
Reduce the legal hurdles, taxes, and paperwork beneficiaries often face when it comes time for the assets to be distributed

How Do I Know If I Need a Trust?

There are several reasons that a trust may be beneficial.

Consider a Trust If:

You have a complicated estate
You have children from previous marriages or kids with special needs
You own multiple properties or have significant assets
You want to gift assets during your lifetime, as a will does not allow passing assets on until after the trustor's death
You need someone to manage your assets if you can't due to health reasons

It is important to note that there are costs associated with creating a trust, often more than those of a will, which will vary based on the complexity of the trust.

Revocable or Irrevocable - What's Right For Me?

While there are many different types of trusts, they are each categorized as either revocable or irrevocable.

What is a Revocable Trust?

A revocable trust, sometimes called a living trust, can be changed anytime during your lifetime, should your circumstances change. In this type of trust, you can name yourself as the trustee and retain ownership of it during your lifetime, but can make adjustments as needed should you become incapable of managing your assets. Revocable trusts are subject to estate taxes.

What is a Irrevocable Trust?

An irrevocable trust works quite differently. In this form of trust, your assets are transferred from your estate and out of your control. You cannot make any changes to the terms of the trust, and it cannot be dissolved. Once this trust is created, your assets are no longer in your control. Typically, this type of trust is used to reduce estate taxes and liabilities from income made on the assets. Some irrevocable trusts can also protect you from legal judgments related to the assets.

What Are The Most Common Types Of Trusts?

While all trusts will be categorized as either revocable or irrevocable, there are a number of different types of trusts. A trust officer will be able to help you determine which type is best for you based on your unique financial situation. Some of the most common types of trusts are:

Marital or "A" Trust: Provides benefits to a surviving spouse- included in their taxable estate
Bypass or "B" Trust: Bypasses the surviving spouse's estate to take advantage of federal estate tax exemption for each spouse
Testamentary Trust: Created after death based on specifications outlined in a will; funds subject to taxes and probate, supervised by a probate court
Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT): Excludes life insurance proceeds while providing liquidity to the beneficiaries
Charitable Lead Trust: Designates certain benefits to go to charitable causes of your choice and the remainder to go to your beneficiaries
Charitable Remainder Trust: Allows you to receive an income for a specified time period, and the remaining funds to be distributed to charity
Generation-Skipping Trust: Allows trust assets to be distributed to grandchildren or other later generations without incurring taxes on the subsequent death of your children

How a Trust Officer Can Guide You

Selecting the right kind of trust depends on many factors. A trust officer will help you choose the most beneficial type of trust based on your goals, assets, and future wishes. A professional trust officer will be able to assist you in understanding your state's laws surrounding trusts and ensure you can make the best decision to secure your assets.

Contact our trust department today for a deeper dive and personalized guidance. We're here to assist you every step of the way!

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