Connecticut Gift of Stock to Spouse for Life with Remainder to Children is a type of estate planning strategy that allows individuals to transfer their stock assets to their spouse for their lifetime, while ensuring that the remaining value of the assets goes to their children upon the spouse's passing. This particular estate planning technique is commonly used in Connecticut and offers various benefits for families looking to provide for their loved ones and minimize potential estate taxes. When individuals choose to create a Connecticut Gift of Stock to Spouse for Life with Remainder to Children, they are able to transfer ownership of their stock assets to their spouse while still maintaining control over the ultimate distribution of the assets. The spouse receives an income from the stock during their lifetime, providing them financial support. At the same time, the remainder interest in the stock is designated for the couple's children, ensuring that the assets eventually pass down to the next generation. One advantage of this strategy is the potential for reducing estate taxes. By transferring the stock assets to the spouse, they become eligible for the unlimited marital deduction, which allows for the tax-free transfer of assets between spouses. This means that the stock assets are not subject to estate tax upon the first spouse's passing. However, when the assets pass to the children, they may be subject to estate taxes, depending on the value of the remaining assets and the prevailing tax laws at the time. It's important to note that there are different types of Connecticut Gift of Stock to Spouse for Life with Remainder to Children arrangements based on specific circumstances and goals. Some common variations include: 1. Qualified Personnel Residence Trust (PRT): This type of arrangement involves transferring ownership of a personal residence or vacation home to a spouse while retaining the right to live in the property for a defined period. At the end of the trust term, the property passes to the children or other designated beneficiaries. 2. Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT): Instead of passing assets directly to children, a CRT allows individuals to transfer stock assets to a trust and receive income from the trust during their lifetime. After their passing, the remaining assets can go to charitable organizations of their choice. 3. Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (IIT): An IIT involves creating a trust and transferring life insurance policies into it. The trust can be utilized to provide income to a surviving spouse while preserving the remaining assets for the children. By using a Connecticut Gift of Stock to Spouse for Life with Remainder to Children, individuals can ensure financial stability for their spouse while passing on assets to their children or other beneficiaries. It is crucial to consult with an estate planning attorney or financial advisor to understand the legal and financial implications of this strategy and tailor it to individual circumstances.