Arkansas Revocable Trust Agreement: What You Need to Know When Settlers Are Husband and Wife In Arkansas, a revocable trust agreement is a legal document that allows individuals, specifically married couples, to protect and manage their assets during their lifetime. This trust agreement provides flexibility, control, and privacy over their property and helps avoid the lengthy and expensive probate process. A revocable trust agreement is a type of trust that can be modified or even revoked by the settlers (the individuals who create the trust) during their lifetime. In Arkansas, when both settlers are husband and wife, they have the option to establish a revocable trust agreement together, commonly referred to as a joint revocable trust. Let us take a closer look at the features, benefits, and types of revocable trust agreements available to husband and wife in Arkansas. 1. Arkansas Joint Revocable Trust Agreement: — A joint revocable trust agreement is established by married couples. — Both spouses are named as co-settlors and have equal decision-making power. — Assets held in the trust are jointly owned by the spouses. — Upon the death of one spouse, the surviving spouse maintains control and access to the trust assets. — When the second spouse passes away, the trust assets are distributed according to the terms outlined in the trust agreement. 2. Arkansas Married Separate Revocable Trust Agreement: — Alternatively, spouses can opt for separate revocable trust agreements. — Each spouse creates an individual trust and appoints themselves as the primary beneficiary. — Assets owned by each spouse are titled in their respective trust. — The trust agreements may include provisions for how shared assets should be handled during the lifetime of both spouses. — Upon the death of one spouse, the assets held in their trust are managed and distributed according to their wishes. Regardless of the type of revocable trust agreement chosen, there are several advantages to consider: — Avoidance of probate: A revocable trust agreement allows assets to pass directly to the named beneficiaries, bypassing the probate process, ensuring a quicker and more efficient transfer of assets. — Privacy: Unlike the probate process, a trust agreement keeps the details of the settlers' assets and beneficiaries private and confidential. — Incapacity planning: The trust agreement can outline provisions for the management of assets in the event one or both spouses become incapacitated, ensuring that their financial affairs are handled according to their wishes. — Flexibility and control: Thsettlersrs retain complete control over the trust assets, with the ability to modify or revoke the trust agreement as needed during their lifetime. It is crucial for couples in Arkansas to consult an experienced estate planning attorney to understand their unique circumstances and explore the best revocable trust agreement option for their needs. A well-drafted trust agreement can provide peace of mind and ensure the seamless transfer of assets for the benefit of the surviving spouse and future generations.