Arkansas Declaration of Trust is a legally binding document that establishes a trust relationship between two parties, namely the granter (also known as the settler or trust or) and the trustee. This declaration outlines the specific terms and conditions under which the trust will operate, including the management and distribution of assets held within the trust. The Arkansas Declaration of Trust serves several purposes, such as asset protection, estate planning, and the avoidance of probate. It allows individuals to transfer their assets, such as property, investments, or funds, into a trust, which is then administered and managed by the trustee on behalf of the beneficiaries. The trust can be established during the granter's lifetime (inter vivos trust) or upon their death (testamentary trust). One common type of Arkansas Declaration of Trust is the revocable living trust. This trust allows the granter to retain control over their assets during their lifetime and make changes or revoke the trust if desired. Additionally, the revocable living trust offers privacy, as it avoids the probate process, which is a public record. Another type is the irrevocable trust, which is created with the intention that it cannot be modified or terminated without the consent of all parties involved. This type of trust is often used for tax planning purposes, as it removes the assets from the granter's taxable estate. A special needs trust can also be established through an Arkansas Declaration of Trust, benefiting individuals with disabilities. This trust ensures that the disabled individual can receive additional support without jeopardizing their eligibility for government assistance programs. Furthermore, a testamentary trust can be included in a last will and testament, specifying how assets will be distributed and managed after the granter's death. This type of trust is created upon the granter's passing, using the Arkansas Declaration of Trust as a supporting document. In summary, the Arkansas Declaration of Trust is a legal instrument that enables individuals to establish and shape trusts tailored to their specific needs and objectives. Whether it be a revocable living trust, irrevocable trust, special needs trust, or testamentary trust, this document provides a detailed framework for the smooth functioning and protection of assets within the trust structure.