Washington Revocable Trust Agreement when Settlers Are Husband and Wife is a legal document that enables married couples in the state of Washington to establish a trust for their assets. This agreement allows them to retain control and flexibility over their assets while providing various benefits such as asset protection, avoiding probate, and potential tax benefits. The Washington Revocable Trust Agreement when Settlers Are Husband and Wife can be categorized into two main types: 1. Joint Revocable Trust: This type of trust is created by both spouses together. It allows them to pool their assets and manage them jointly. They can add or remove assets, amend or terminate the trust, and designate beneficiaries as they see fit. The trust assets are managed for their mutual benefit during their lifetimes and distributed according to their wishes after both spouses have passed away. 2. Separate Revocable Trusts: Alternatively, spouses may choose to create separate trusts to manage their individual assets. Each spouse has their own trust, and they retain complete control over their respective assets. This arrangement can be suitable if the spouses have different estate planning goals, separate property interests, or management preferences. Regardless of the specific type, the Washington Revocable Trust Agreement when Settlers Are Husband and Wife typically includes the following key provisions: a) Trustee Designation: The agreement identifies the initial trustees, who are responsible for managing and distributing the trust assets during the settlers' lifetimes and after their deaths. In most cases, the settlers themselves act as trustees until they are no longer able to do so, at which point successor trustees are appointed. b) Distribution of Assets: The trust agreement outlines how the assets should be distributed upon the death of one or both settlers. This includes specifying the beneficiaries, their share of the assets, and any conditions or restrictions placed on the distributions. c) Revocability and Amendment: As the name implies, the trust can be revoked or amended at any time during the settlers' lifetimes, either jointly or individually, providing maximum flexibility. d) Incapacity Planning: The agreement addresses the possibility of one or both settlers becoming incapacitated. It defines the process for the appointment of successor trustees or agents to manage the trust assets and make decisions on behalf of the incapacitated settlers. e) Tax Considerations: The trust agreement may incorporate provisions aimed at minimizing estate taxes and other tax liabilities, taking advantage of the applicable Washington state laws and federal tax codes. f) Trust Administration: The agreement outlines the powers and duties of the trustees, including investment authority, record-keeping obligations, and requirements for providing annual reports to the beneficiaries. Overall, the Washington Revocable Trust Agreement when Settlers Are Husband and Wife provides a comprehensive legal framework for married couples to protect and manage their assets efficiently during their lifetimes and beyond. It is advisable to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney to ensure the trust is properly structured and tailored to meet the specific goals and needs of the couple.