The South Carolina Declaration of Trust is a legally binding document that establishes a fiduciary relationship between a trustee and the beneficiaries. It outlines the terms and conditions under which assets or property are held and managed on behalf of the beneficiaries. The primary purpose of the South Carolina Declaration of Trust is to protect the rights and interests of the beneficiaries by clearly defining the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the trustee. It ensures that the trustee acts in the best interests of the beneficiaries and manages the trust assets in accordance with the terms specified in the document. There are various types of South Carolina Declaration of Trust, including: 1. Revocable Living Trust: This type of trust allows the creator (also known as the granter or settler) to establish the trust during their lifetime and to modify or revoke it at any time. It provides flexibility and control over assets while also avoiding probate. 2. Irrevocable Trust: Unlike a revocable trust, an irrevocable trust cannot be modified or revoked by the granter once it is established. It offers increased asset protection and can be utilized for estate planning, tax reduction, and Medicaid planning purposes. 3. Charitable Trust: A charitable trust is created with the intention of benefiting a charitable organization or cause. It allows individuals to make philanthropic contributions while potentially receiving tax benefits. 4. Special Needs Trust: This type of trust is designed to financially support individuals with special needs or disabilities. It ensures that the trust assets are managed in a way that does not impact the beneficiary's eligibility for government benefits. 5. Testamentary Trust: A testamentary trust is established through a will and becomes effective upon the death of the granter. It allows for the transfer of assets to beneficiaries while providing specific instructions regarding asset distribution and management. Overall, the South Carolina Declaration of Trust is a vital legal instrument that empowers individuals to protect and manage their assets for the benefit of themselves or their chosen beneficiaries.