Maryland Qualified Domestic Trust Agreement, also known as a DOT Agreement in Maryland, is an estate planning tool designed to provide tax benefits for non-U.S. citizen surviving spouses. It allows them to defer and potentially minimize estate taxes upon the death of a U.S. citizen spouse. This legal agreement is specifically tailored to meet the requirements set forth by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for a domestic trust arrangement to qualify as a Qualified Domestic Trust (DOT). In Maryland, DOT Agreements abide by the state's laws and regulations while adhering to the federal guidelines outlined by the IRS. A DOT Agreement in Maryland provides a strategic solution for non-U.S. citizen surviving spouses who would otherwise be subject to immediate estate tax liability upon inheriting assets from their U.S. citizen spouse. By establishing a DOT, the surviving spouse can defer the payment of estate taxes until a distribution is made from the trust. This allows the surviving spouse to continue receiving income from the assets held in the trust while ensuring that estate taxes are not triggered until a later date. There are different types of Maryland Qualified Domestic Trust Agreements that individuals can choose from, depending on their specific needs and circumstances. These may include: 1. General Maryland DOT Agreement: This type of DOT Agreement is designed to provide flexibility in terms of the assets that can be held within the trust. It allows for a variety of qualifying assets, such as cash, securities, real estate, and business interests, to be placed in the trust. 2. Specific Asset Maryland DOT Agreement: This type of DOT Agreement is specifically tailored to hold a particular asset or a group of assets. It is suitable for individuals who have a significant asset or a specific portfolio they wish to protect and transfer to their non-U.S. citizen surviving spouse. 3. Supplemental Maryland DOT Agreement: This type of DOT Agreement can be used in conjunction with an existing estate plan or trust. It acts as an addendum or amendment to an existing trust, allowing the assets to qualify for DOT status, even if the original trust did not meet the DOT requirements. It is important for individuals considering a Maryland Qualified Domestic Trust Agreement to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney who is well-versed in both Maryland state laws and the federal guidelines set forth by the IRS. This will ensure that the DOT Agreement is properly established and complies with all legal and tax requirements, providing the desired tax benefits for the non-U.S. citizen surviving spouse and their family.