Life insurance trusts can be designed to keep the proceeds of a life insurance policy out of your estate and give your estate the liquidity it needs. Generally, you can fund a life insurance trust either by transferring an existing life insurance policy or by having the trust purchase a new policy. Such trusts must be irrevocable-meaning that you cannot dissolve the trust if you change your mind later. With proper planning, the proceeds from a life insurance held by the trust may pass to trust beneficiaries without income or estate taxes. This gives them cash which may be used to help pay estate taxes or other expenses, such as debts or funeral costs.
Estate planning is very complex and is subject to changing laws.
This page by no means covers all estate planning methods. Be sure to seek professional advice from a qualified insurance professional, attorney, CPA or estate planner. The money you spend now to plan your estate may mean more money for your beneficiaries in the long run. InsuranceDirect is committed to providing you the consumer the most comprehensive information available. However be aware that changes in regulations or legislation can occur.