A Promise That Lives On WHY A MARITAL TRUST MAY BE THE MISSING PIECE IN YOUR ESTATE PLAN
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for estate planning, but if you’re married, there’s a strong chance a marital trust could be one of the most powerful options available. Unlike other types of trusts, which can be crafted to benefit children, charities, or even pets, marital trusts are designed with one key goal: protecting and providing for your spouse after you’re gone. A Safety Net for the One You Love Marital trusts serve a distinct purpose, ensuring your spouse is financially secure for the rest of their life. These trusts generate income from assets placed in the trust and provide ongoing support to your surviving partner. But it doesn’t stop there. Once your spouse passes, the remaining assets (the principal) are distributed to your chosen beneficiaries, often children or other loved ones. This makes marital trusts an excellent option for blended families who want to balance care for a spouse with protection of a legacy for kids from previous relationships. Peace of Mind With a Protective Edge These trusts also offer something every family deserves: stability. By sheltering assets from creditors and helping manage estate taxes, a
marital trust can reduce stress during life’s most difficult transitions. It allows your loved ones to grieve without being overwhelmed by financial uncertainty. Whether it’s an AB Trust that divides assets strategically or a QTIP Trust that ensures long-term care for your spouse, the right trust can provide a thoughtful path forward. Things to Consider Before You Commit Still, creating a marital trust is a decision that requires care. Many are irrevocable , meaning they can’t be changed once they’re established. And for those with substantial estates, a single trust may not be enough to handle every tax consideration. Setting up the trust can also take time, especially if you’re transferring complex assets. But with the right guidance, the process becomes a meaningful step in building your family’s future. At Merlino & Gonzalez, we understand that estate planning is deeply personal. Our attorneys are here to help you create a plan that reflects your values, honors your relationships, and protects your loved ones. Let’s build something lasting together. Contact us today to begin the conversation.
Get into the Independence Day spirit with this refreshing, layered cocktail — citrusy and perfect for hot summer days. 4TH OF JULY COCKTAIL Michele’s Recipe Corner
INGREDIENTS •
2 oz grenadine, divided
• • •
6 oz lemonade
3 oz vodka
2 oz blue curaçao
DIRECTIONS 1. In each of 2 cocktail glasses, pour 1 oz grenadine and fill with ice. 2. In a cocktail shaker or glass measuring cup, mix lemonade and vodka. 3. Slowly pour the mixture evenly into the glasses with grenadine. 4. Place a soup spoon upside down over each glass. Very slowly, pour half of the blue curaçao over the spoon, cascading the curaçao to create the blue layer. 5. Serve immediately, and let freedom ring!
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