Put property in a trust, and voila! … it’s not in your estate to attract taxes. Of course, if you no longer “own” the property, you can’t spend it. So be sure you can afford to “do without” whatever property you place in trust. Many types of trusts can benefit your heirs, or perhaps a charity, after you’re gone. Some allow you freedom to control property in the trust while you are alive. For example, a credit-shelter trust can hold some of your property (for example, your investments). While you are alive, you can make decisions about this property (e.g., buying and selling investments). After your death, it can pay income to your spouse; and thereafter property held in the trust can be evenly distributed to your children with little or no estate-tax implications. If you think you could benefit from a trust:

Talk to your attorney. Trusts must be carefully drawn and be in harmony with your will, titles and beneficiary designations.

Take time to evaluate the pros and cons of the trust before signing.

No matter your estate size, if you have an incapacitated child, consider a trust and get some peace of mind. After you’re gone, a trust can continue to provide financial support to assure your loved one is well cared for. There are attorneys and Financial professionals who specialize in strategies for protecting disabled or incapacitated children .