A Georgia Qualified Domestic Trust Agreement, also known as a DOT Agreement, is a legal document that enables the establishment of a trust for the benefit of a non-U.S. citizen surviving spouse, while allowing for estate tax benefits. It is specifically designed to meet the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 2056A. A DOT Agreement is essential for non-U.S. citizen spouses living in Georgia who want to ensure that assets and wealth are preserved and managed appropriately after the death of their U.S. citizen spouse. By forming a DOT, the surviving non-U.S. citizen spouse can continue to receive income from the trust while deferring estate taxes. The primary purpose of a DOT Agreement is to prevent immediate estate tax liability on the assets transferred to the trust upon the death of the U.S. citizen spouse. This agreement enables the deferral of estate taxes until distributions are made, ensuring that the surviving spouse receives adequate income and support during their lifetime. There are two main types of DOT Agreements available in Georgia: 1. Marital DOT: This type of DOT Agreement allows for the unlimited marital deduction, which means that the assets transferred to the trust are not subject to estate tax upon the death of the U.S. citizen spouse. The surviving non-U.S. citizen spouse can receive income generated by the trust during their lifetime, providing financial security. 2. Non-Marital DOT: Unlike a Marital DOT, a Non-Marital DOT Agreement does not qualify for the unlimited marital deduction. Assets transferred to this trust are subjected to estate taxes upon the death of the U.S. citizen spouse. However, the surviving non-U.S. citizen spouse can still receive income from the trust, ensuring ongoing financial support. To establish a DOT Agreement in Georgia, certain requirements must be met. The trust document must include provisions that designate a U.S. trustee responsible for managing the trust and ensuring compliance with IRC Section 2056A. Additionally, it must specify that at least one trustee should be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. corporation. The trust must also provide for at least one distribution to the surviving spouse during their lifetime. In conclusion, a Georgia Qualified Domestic Trust Agreement is a crucial tool for non-U.S. citizen spouses residing in Georgia to preserve and protect their assets while benefiting from estate tax deferral. By understanding the different types of DOT Agreements and meeting the necessary requirements, couples can ensure financial security for the surviving spouse.