The Oklahoma Complex Will — Credit Shelter Marital Trust for Spouse, also known as a Marital Trust or an A-B Trust, is a legal instrument commonly used as part of estate planning in Oklahoma. It provides a mechanism for married couples to protect assets and minimize estate taxes upon their passing. This detailed description will outline the key features and types of this complex will specifically tailor to Oklahoma laws. A Credit Shelters Marital Trust is created by a married individual and is designed to avail the maximum federal estate tax exemption allowed by law. It allows the granter to leave assets to their spouse while also taking advantage of the applicable estate tax exemption amount, thus reducing the overall estate tax liability upon the eventual passing of the surviving spouse. The Oklahoma Complex Will — Credit Shelter Marital Trust for Spouse typically involves two major components: 1. Credit Shelter Trust: This component of the complex will, often referred to as the "A Trust" or the "Family Trust," is established upon the death of the first spouse. It involves funding the trust with an amount equal to or less than the federal estate tax exemption limit (depending on the desired level of estate tax protection). The surviving spouse is entitled to income generated by this trust and may also have access to the principal if needed for specific purposes defined within the trust document, such as healthcare expenses or home maintenance. 2. Marital Trust: The Marital Trust, sometimes called the "B Trust" or "Survivor's Trust," is also created upon the death of the first spouse. It is designed to hold assets that qualify for the unlimited marital deduction, meaning that they can pass to the surviving spouse tax-free. The surviving spouse has the right to use the principal and income of this trust during their lifetime, providing them with financial security. However, they do not have complete control over the distribution of the trust assets upon their death, as the granter can specify who will ultimately receive any remaining assets. The ultimate goal of the Oklahoma Complex Will — Credit Shelter Marital Trust for Spouse is to protect the family's wealth by minimizing estate taxes while ensuring financial security for the surviving spouse. By utilizing this estate planning tool, couples can maximize their estate tax exemptions, effectively doubling their estate's protection from taxes. It allows the surviving spouse to have access to the necessary funds while preserving assets for future generations or other beneficiaries determined by the granter. It should be noted that the specific provisions and details of the Oklahoma Complex Will — Credit Shelter Marital Trust for Spouse may vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney in Oklahoma is crucial to customize the trust's terms according to state laws and personal goals.