Indiana Granter Retained Annuity Trust (GREAT) is a type of estate planning tool that allows individuals in Indiana to transfer assets to their beneficiaries while potentially minimizing estate taxes. By establishing an Indiana GREAT, the granter can retain an annuity payment for a specified period, after which the remaining assets pass to the beneficiaries. One of the key advantages of an Indiana GREAT is its ability to reduce estate tax liability. By transferring assets to the trust, the value of those assets is removed from the granter's estate, potentially reducing the estate tax burden upon their passing. This makes the GREAT particularly attractive for individuals with significant assets and a desire to provide for their beneficiaries while preserving wealth. The annuity payment received by the granter is predetermined at the time of the trust creation and is typically based on the initial value of the assets transferred. This annuity payment serves as a means for the granter to maintain a stream of income during the trust term. There are a few different types of Indiana Granter Retained Annuity Trusts that individuals can consider, depending on their specific goals and circumstances: 1. Traditional GREAT: This type of GREAT involves transferring assets to the trust for a specified term, during which the granter retains the right to receive an annuity payment. Once the trust term ends, the remaining assets pass on to the beneficiaries. This type of GREAT is often used to transfer appreciating assets, allowing the granter to potentially pass on the future appreciation tax-free. 2. Zeroed-Out GREAT: In a zeroed-out GREAT, the annuity payments are set in a way that effectively reduces the taxable value of the assets to zero over the trust term. This approach allows the granter to transfer assets without incurring a gift tax liability, as the taxable value is effectively offset by the annuity payments. 3. Rolling GREAT: A rolling GREAT involves creating a series of Grants with overlapping terms. This strategy can be useful when the granter wishes to continue transferring assets while taking advantage of lower interest rates or depressed asset values. Rolling Grants can help maximize wealth transfer while minimizing potential estate tax burdens. It is important to note that establishing an Indiana Granter Retained Annuity Trust requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including the value of assets, term length, and likely appreciation rates. Consulting with a qualified estate planning attorney or financial advisor is crucial to ensure the trust is structured effectively to achieve the granter's objectives.