The Harris Texas Revocable Trust for Married Couple is a legal instrument designed to help married couples manage and protect their assets during their lifetimes and ensure an efficient distribution of their estate upon their passing. This type of trust provides flexibility and control over the assets, allowing the couple to make changes or revoke the trust as circumstances change. In Harris County, Texas, there are different types of revocable trusts available to married couples: 1. Living Revocable Trust: The living revocable trust is the most common type for a married couple in Harris County. It allows the couple to transfer assets into the trust, which will be managed by a trustee (often one or both spouses). The trust can be changed or revoked by the couple at any time during their lifetime. 2. Joint Revocable Trust: This type of trust is specifically designed for married couples and allows them to create a single revocable trust to hold their combined assets. The couple acts as co-trustees and has complete control over the trust assets. Upon the death of one spouse, the surviving spouse continues to have control over the trust. 3. A-B Trust: Also known as a Credit Shelter Trust or Bypass Trust, an A-B Trust is commonly used to minimize estate taxes. This type of trust divides the couple's assets into two separate trusts upon the death of the first spouse. The assets in the "A" trust are normally exempt from estate taxes, while those in the "B" trust are subject to taxation. The surviving spouse typically has access to income and principal from the "B" trust. 4. TIP Trust: Qualified Terminable Interest Property Trust allows the married couple to provide for the surviving spouse while ensuring that the ultimate distribution of assets goes according to their wishes. Income generated by the trust is paid to the surviving spouse, and upon their death, the assets are distributed to the beneficiaries designated by the couple. 5. Qualified Personnel Residence Trust (PRT): This type of trust involves transferring a primary residence or vacation home into a trust for the benefit of the married couple. The couple can continue to reside in the property for a specific term while reducing the value of the home for estate tax purposes. A Harris Texas Revocable Trust for Married Couple provides several key benefits, including avoiding probate, maintaining privacy, minimizing estate taxes, and ensuring a smooth asset transfer process. However, it is essential for couples to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney to understand the specific trust options available to them and tailor the trust to their unique needs and circumstances.