Collin Texas Granter Retained Annuity Trust (GREAT) is a legal and flexible estate planning tool. This type of trust allows individuals in Collin, Texas, to transfer assets out of their estate and potentially minimize estate taxes while still maintaining an income stream during their lifetime. A Collin Texas GREAT is established when the granter (the person creating the trust) transfers assets, such as real estate, stocks, or business interests, into the trust. The granter specifies an annuity amount to be paid back to themselves annually for a predetermined period. The annuity amount is typically a percentage of the initial value of the assets transferred. The GREAT becomes irrevocable once it is established, meaning that the granter cannot modify or revoke it. The primary objective of a Collin Texas GREAT is to transfer the appreciation of assets outside the granter's estate while retaining an income stream. Any appreciation that exceeds the IRS's assumed rate of return is effectively transferred to the beneficiaries without any gift tax implications. There are different types of Grants that individuals in Collin, Texas, can consider: 1. Zeroed-Out GREAT: This type of GREAT is structured in a way that the annuity payments back to the granter are set at a level that minimizes or eliminates any potential gift tax liability. The annuity payments usually equal the value of the assets transferred plus the assumed interest rate set by the IRS. This strategy allows for the maximum amount of appreciation to pass to the beneficiaries. 2. Qualified Personnel Residence GREAT (PRT): A PRT is an annuity trust specifically designed for transferring the granter's primary residence or a secondary home to beneficiaries. By utilizing this type of GREAT, individuals can continue living in the home while removing its value from their taxable estate. 3. Charitable Remainder Granter Annuity Trust (CAT): A CAT is a variation of the GREAT that offers income to the granter for a fixed term, after which the remaining assets are transferred to a charitable organization. This type of trust allows individuals to receive a charitable deduction at the time of the trust creation while retaining an income stream for themselves. 4. Non-Qualified GREAT: Unlike a qualified GREAT, a non-qualified GREAT does not need to adhere to the rules set by the IRS regarding the term or annuity payments. This flexibility allows the granter to customize the terms of the GREAT to meet specific goals and objectives. In summary, a Collin Texas Granter Retained Annuity Trust (GREAT) is a powerful estate planning tool that can help individuals transfer assets out of their estate while still receiving income during their lifetime. By utilizing various types of Grants, individuals in Collin, Texas, can customize their estate plan to meet their specific needs and minimize potential estate taxes.