Trusts are versatile legal instruments that allow individuals in Georgia to manage, protect, and transfer their assets in a structured manner. If you're thinking of setting up a trust, it's essential to understand the different types available to ensure you choose one that aligns with your estate planning goals.

The Basics of Trusts in Georgia

A trust is a legal arrangement wherein a person or entity, known as the trustee, manages assets for the benefit of another, the beneficiary. The person who sets up the trust is often called the grantor or settlor. In Georgia, trusts can be beneficial for various purposes: from safeguarding assets for minors, providing for family members with special needs, avoiding probate, and minimizing tax implications. Unlike a will that becomes effective only upon death, certain types of trusts can be operational during the grantor's lifetime. Moreover, trusts provide more control over asset distribution and can sometimes avoid the probate process, which can be time-consuming and public.

Revocable Living Trusts

A revocable living trust is a popular estate planning tool in Georgia. This trust allows the grantor to maintain control over their assets during their lifetime. As the name suggests, this trust can be modified, amended, or even revoked at any time by the grantor. Upon the grantor's death, assets in the trust bypass probate and directly transfer to the beneficiaries, or otherwise follow the plan of management and distribution set forth in the trust. This can be a swift and private process. Furthermore, it can provide peace of mind, knowing that one's wishes will be carried out without court intervention

Irrevocable Trusts

Unlike revocable trusts, an irrevocable trust cannot be altered or revoked once established, except under very specific conditions or with the consent of the beneficiaries and in some cases, court approval. This type of trust is beneficial for asset protection, as the assets transferred into it no longer belong to the grantor and are typically protected from creditors. Because the assets are effectively out of reach, many individuals use this trust to safeguard against potential lawsuits or other financial pitfalls. In addition to protection, an irrevocable trust can offer potential tax benefits, especially for those with sizable estates that might be subject to estate taxes.

Special Needs Trusts

Special needs trusts are designed to benefit individuals with disabilities. They allow assets to be set aside for a person with special needs without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits, like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. The trust can be used to pay for non-covered medical expenses, educational needs, and even recreational activities, enhancing the quality of life for the beneficiary.

Generation-Skipping Trusts

Also known as a Dynasty Trust, this trust is used to transfer wealth tax-free to descendants, usually grandchildren or later generations. It bypasses the children's generation to avoid estate taxes that would apply if assets were transferred to them first.

Life Insurance Trusts

This type of irrevocable trust is created specifically to own a life insurance policy. It removes the death benefit of the insurance from the taxable estate, ensuring that the beneficiaries receive the full amount tax-free.

Credit Shelter Trusts

Also known as a Bypass or Family Trust, this trust is set up to allow both spouses to take full advantage of their estate tax exemptions. When one spouse dies, their assets go into the trust, benefiting the surviving spouse and children, but excluding the assets from the deceased's estate.

The Rich Diversity of Trusts in Estate Planning

Trusts offer a wide range of options for individuals looking to manage, protect, and distribute their assets in a structured manner. With so many types of trusts available, it's crucial to understand their unique features and benefits to make the right choice for your circumstances. 

Each trust has its own benefits and purposes, but all offer a structured way to protect and distribute your assets. Given their complexity, it's essential to get guidance tailored to your specific situation and needs.

Plan Your Trusts with Peach State Wills & Trusts

If you're considering establishing a trust or have questions about which trust is right for you, our team is here to assist. Contact Peach State Wills & Trusts at 678-344-5342 to learn how to plan for a secure financial future in Georgia today. 

If you have any questions about estate planning in Georgia, you can download our free guide here, no strings attached.