Connecticut Granter Retained Annuity Trust (GREAT) is a type of irrevocable trust established in the state of Connecticut. It offers significant estate planning benefits, allowing individuals to transfer assets to their chosen beneficiaries while minimizing gift and estate tax liabilities. A Connecticut GREAT is a legal arrangement in which the granter (a person establishing the trust) transfers assets into the trust while retaining the right to receive annuity payments for a specified period. The annuity payments are determined based on the value of the assets transferred, the duration of the trust, and the applicable interest rates. At the end of the trust term, any remaining assets pass to the named beneficiaries, such as family members or charitable organizations, without being subject to estate taxes. There are different types of Connecticut Granter Retained Annuity Trusts, which provide various options for the granter: 1. Standard GREAT: This is the most common type of GREAT. The granter transfers assets into the trust and receives annuity payments for a fixed term. At the end of the term, the remaining assets pass to the beneficiaries with reduced or eliminated gift and estate tax consequences. 2. Zeroed-Out GREAT: In this type of GREAT, the annuity payments are set at a level that will use the entire value of the transferred assets, effectively "zeroing-out" the taxable gift. The granter does not retain any significant wealth transfer benefits, but this strategy may be useful in certain circumstances to freeze the value of the assets for estate tax purposes. 3. Non-Grantor GREAT: Unlike a typical GREAT, a non-grantor GREAT does not include the granter's retained annuity payment as taxable income. Instead, the trust itself pays income taxes on the earnings, potentially reducing the granter's taxable estate. Connecticut Granter Retained Annuity Trusts can be an effective tool for wealth preservation, asset transfer, and tax planning. However, it is essential to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney or financial advisor to determine if a GREAT is suitable for an individual's specific circumstances and goals. Basing decisions on professional advice will ensure compliance with applicable laws and optimize the benefits of utilizing a Connecticut GREAT.