Murfreesboro Tennessee Credit Shelter Marital Trust, also known as the Bypass Trust or Family Trust, is an estate planning tool used by married couples to maximize the use of their federal estate tax exemption. This type of trust allows a surviving spouse to utilize the exemption amount of the deceased spouse, thereby reducing potential estate taxes upon the death of the surviving spouse. The Murfreesboro Tennessee Credit Shelter Marital Trust works by having the deceased spouse's assets, up to the value of their estate tax exemption, placed in a trust upon their passing. These assets are then held and managed for the benefit of the surviving spouse during their lifetime. Upon the death of the surviving spouse, the assets held in the trust pass on to the designated beneficiaries, such as children or other family members, bypassing their estate and potentially reducing the overall estate tax liability. Some key features and benefits of Murfreesboro Tennessee Credit Shelter Marital Trust include: 1. Estate Tax Exemption Maximization: By using this trust, married couples can fully utilize both spouses' estate tax exemptions, effectively doubling the amount that can be passed on tax-free to their beneficiaries. 2. Asset Protection: Assets placed in the trust are protected from potential creditors, lawsuits, and future estate tax changes, ensuring their preservation and benefit for future generations. 3. Flexibility of Distribution: The trust document can be customized to specify how the trust assets should be distributed upon the surviving spouse's death, allowing for specific instructions regarding beneficiaries and ensuring the assets are distributed according to the couple's wishes. 4. Controlling Future Beneficiaries: In cases where blended families exist or specific considerations need to be made, this trust can provide an effective means of controlling the ultimate distribution of assets, ensuring they are protected and distributed in line with the couple's intentions. It's important to note that while the Murfreesboro Tennessee Credit Shelter Marital Trust can be highly beneficial in estate planning, it requires careful consideration and guidance from a professional attorney or financial advisor. Each individual's situation is unique, and the trust's creation must align with their specific goals and objectives. In summary, the Murfreesboro Tennessee Credit Shelter Marital Trust is a valuable estate planning tool that enables married couples to maximize their estate tax exemptions and ensure the preservation and efficient transfer of their assets to future generations.