Contact us for a Free Initial Consultation 414-253-8500

The Benefits of an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT) in Estate Planning

 
Estate planning is an essential process for anyone looking to protect their assets and provide for their loved ones. One powerful estate planning tool is the Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT). This article will explore the benefits of using an ILIT in estate planning, as well as the steps involved in setting one up.
 

At Heritage Law Office, our experienced estate planning attorney will thoroughly review your needs and wants when planning your estate and provide an outline of your best options, including the creation of an irrevocable trust. Contact us either online or at 414-253-8500 to schedule a free consultation today.

What is an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT)?

An Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT) is a type of trust specifically designed to hold a life insurance policy. It is established by the policyholder, who transfers the ownership of the policy to the trust. As the name suggests, an ILIT is irrevocable, which means that once the trust is set up, it cannot be changed or revoked without the consent of the beneficiaries.

Advantages of an ILIT

There are several benefits to using an ILIT in estate planning:

  1. Estate tax reduction: By transferring the ownership of a life insurance policy to an ILIT, the policy's proceeds will not be included in the estate of the deceased, potentially reducing estate tax liability.
  2. Asset protection: ILITs can protect the life insurance proceeds from creditors, ensuring that the beneficiaries receive the intended funds.
  3. Control over distribution: The trust document can outline specific instructions on how the insurance proceeds should be distributed, providing greater control over the funds' distribution.
  4. Spendthrift protection: An ILIT can help protect beneficiaries who may not be financially responsible by controlling the distribution of funds over time, rather than providing a lump sum payment.

Setting up an ILIT: Key Steps

Creating an ILIT involves several essential steps:

Choose a Trustee

Select a trustee to manage the ILIT. This person will be responsible for administering the trust according to its terms and ensuring that the life insurance policy remains in force. The trustee can be a family member, friend, or professional trust company.

Draft the Trust Document

Work with an experienced estate planning attorney to draft the ILIT trust document. This document will outline the terms of the trust, including the beneficiaries, distribution instructions, and trustee powers.

Transfer the Life Insurance Policy

Once the ILIT is established, transfer ownership of the life insurance policy to the trust. This step is crucial to ensure that the policy proceeds are excluded from the estate for estate tax purposes.

Fund the ILIT

The ILIT must have sufficient funds to pay the life insurance premiums. Typically, the grantor (person setting up the ILIT) will make annual gifts to the trust to cover these expenses.

Potential Drawbacks of ILITs

While ILITs offer numerous benefits, there are potential drawbacks to consider:

  1. Lack of flexibility: Once an ILIT is established, it is irrevocable and cannot be easily changed.
  2. Complexity: ILITs can be complicated to set up and administer, often requiring the assistance of an experienced estate planning attorney.
  3. Funding requirements: The grantor must consistently fund the ILIT to cover the life insurance premiums, which may be a financial burden.

Contact a Knowledgeable Estate Planning Attorney

If you are considering an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust as part of your estate planning strategy, it is essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney.

At Heritage Law Office, our experienced estate planning attorney will help you determine if an ILIT is the right choice for your unique circumstances and guide you through the process of setting one up. Contact our attorney by using the online form or calling us directly at 414-253-8500.

Contact Us Today

For a comprehensive plan that will meet your needs or the needs of a loved one, contact us today. Located in Downtown Milwaukee, we proudly provide legal advice to those in Milwaukee County and surrounding communities.

Milwaukee Office
757 N. Broadway, Suite 300
Milwaukee, WI 53202
414-253-8500
Minneapolis Office
Remote
Minneapolis, MN 55104
612-204-2300
414-676-2787 (fax)
1 more location

Menu