A Virginia Complex Will is a legal document that allows individuals in Virginia to protect their assets and property after their passing. One specific type of Virginia Complex Will is the Maximum Unified Credit to Spouse Will. The Maximum Unified Credit to Spouse Will is designed to take full advantage of the federal estate tax exemption known as the unified credit. This credit allows a certain amount of assets to be passed on to heirs without being subject to estate taxes. As of 2021, the federal estate tax exemption is set at $11.7 million for individuals and $23.4 million for married couples. In the case of a married individual, the Maximum Unified Credit to Spouse Will ensures that the surviving spouse will receive the maximum amount of assets possible without incurring estate taxes upon the death of the first spouse. This is accomplished by using various estate planning strategies, such as creating a trust, leveraging the unified credit, and utilizing other available exemptions and deductions. By utilizing the Maximum Unified Credit to Spouse Will, married couples in Virginia can provide financial security for their surviving spouse while minimizing estate taxes. This type of will is especially beneficial for couples with significant assets that may exceed the federal estate tax exemption threshold. It's important to note that the specific details and provisions of a Maximum Unified Credit to Spouse Will may vary depending on the individual's unique circumstances and goals. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney is crucial to ensure that the will is tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual or couple. In summary, the Virginia Complex Will — Maximum Unified Credit to Spouse is a type of estate planning tool designed to minimize estate taxes while maximizing asset protection for married couples. It leverages the federal estate tax exemption and various strategies to provide financial security for the surviving spouse. Proper legal counsel is essential when creating this type of will to ensure it aligns with the individual's goals and objectives.