A Montgomery Maryland Qualified Domestic Trust (DOT) Agreement is a legally binding document that enables non-U.S. citizen surviving spouses to access the marital deduction for estate tax purposes. This agreement is designed to address the unique challenges faced by non-U.S. citizen spouses in qualifying for federal estate tax benefits in the event of their U.S. citizen spouse's death. In Montgomery Maryland, as in other jurisdictions, a DOT Agreement must comply with federal regulations as laid out in Section 2056A of the Internal Revenue Code. It acts as a safeguard against estate tax liability by deferring the payment of estate taxes until the surviving non-U.S. citizen spouse's death or another specified event occurs. This agreement ensures that the surviving spouse can continue to benefit from the deceased spouse's estate while maintaining compliance with federal estate tax laws. There are two main types of Montgomery Maryland Qualified Domestic Trust Agreements: 1. First-Type DOT Agreement: This type of agreement allows for the deferral of estate taxes on the unlimited marital deduction until distributions are made to the surviving non-U.S. citizen spouse. It requires that the trustees maintain at least one qualified U.S. trustee, who is responsible for overseeing compliance with trust requirements and ensuring that estate taxes are paid when due. 2. Second-Type DOT Agreement: This agreement permits the trustee to make distributions of principal to the surviving non-U.S. citizen spouse without the need to withhold estate taxes. However, any distribution of principal will trigger immediate estate tax liability. This type of DOT Agreement is commonly used when the DOT assets generate sufficient income to cover the estate taxes. Both types of Montgomery Maryland DOT Agreements help non-U.S. citizen surviving spouses preserve the marital deduction while providing financial security. They also ensure proper estate tax planning and compliance with relevant federal regulations. It is important for individuals considering a Montgomery Maryland DOT Agreement to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney who can provide guidance on meeting the specific requirements and implications of this complex legal tool.