A West Virginia Trust Agreement — Irrevocable is a legally binding document that establishes a trust in the state of West Virginia, which cannot be changed or revoked by the granter once it is executed. This trust agreement allows individuals to transfer their assets, such as property, investments, or funds, to a trustee who will manage and distribute them according to the specified terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. There are various types of West Virginia Trust Agreements — Irrevocable, each serving different purposes based on the specific needs and goals of the granter: 1. Revocable Living Trust: This type of trust allows the granter to maintain control over their assets during their lifetime and provides flexibility to modify or revoke the trust if circumstances change. However, upon the granter's death, the trust becomes irrevocable. 2. Charitable Remainder Trust: This trust allows the granter to donate assets to a charitable organization while retaining an income stream from those assets during their lifetime. After the granter's death, the remaining assets are transferred to the designated charity. 3. Special Needs Trust: This trust is designed to financially support individuals with disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits. The trustee manages the assets to enhance the beneficiary's quality of life while ensuring their continued access to government assistance. 4. Spendthrift Trust: A spendthrift trust protects the assets from being squandered by the beneficiaries, including protecting them from creditors. The trustee controls the disbursement of funds, allowing for steady financial support over time. 5. Life Insurance Trust: This trust is specifically designed to own life insurance policies, allowing the granter to remove the insurance proceeds from their taxable estate, providing potential estate tax benefits for their beneficiaries. 6. Dynasty Trust: Also known as a generation-skipping trust, this type of trust perpetuates wealth for multiple generations by minimizing estate taxes. It allows the granter to transfer substantial assets to beneficiaries while avoiding estate taxes or gift taxes. 7. Qualified Personnel Residence Trust (PRT): This trust permits the granter to transfer their primary or vacation home to the trust, thereby reducing the value of their taxable estate. The granter can continue living in the residence for a specified period, after which it passes to the designated beneficiaries. When establishing a West Virginia Trust Agreement — Irrevocable, it is crucial to consult an experienced attorney well-versed in trust law to ensure compliance with state regulations and to tailor the agreement to meet the granter's specific objectives. It is essential to carefully consider the nature and objectives of the trust, as well as the potential tax and legal ramifications associated with the chosen type of irrevocable trust.