Intentionally defective grantor trust in Thousand Oaks

An Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust (IDGT) is an estate planning tool that is designed to transfer wealth to beneficiaries while minimizing estate and gift taxes. The trust is considered “intentionally defective” because, for tax purposes, the grantor retains certain powers that cause the trust’s income to be taxed to the grantor, rather than the trust or its beneficiaries, under the grantor trust rules of the Internal Revenue Code. ##Key Features: 1. Grantor Pays Income Taxes : The income generated by the trust is taxable to the grantor personally, which allows the trust assets to grow undiminished by income tax payments, effectively serving as an additional tax-free gift to the beneficiaries. 2. Estate Tax Benefits : By transferring assets into the IDGT (typically through a sale or gift), the assets and their future appreciation are removed from the grantor’s taxable estate, reducing potential estate taxes. 3. Useful for Wealth Transfer : The trust is commonly used in strategies to pass high-growth assets to heirs while freezing the estate value for estate tax purposes. ##Common Strategy: The grantor often “sells” assets to the IDGT in exchange for a promissory note. This allows the grantor to transfer wealth without triggering gift taxes, while future appreciation of the assets occurs outside the taxable estate. In short, an IDGT separates income tax liability (borne by the grantor) from estate tax planning (benefiting the beneficiaries), making it a powerful but complex estate planning tool. in Thousand Oaks

 

I’m Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley, and I’m an un-stuffy Thousand Oaks lawyer – Intentionally defective grantor trust

I don’t bite and I’m not mean.

Set up your free consultation with me and let’s talk about your Intentionally defective grantor trust needs in Thousand Oaks or anywhere else in California

I promise to answer your questions, and not to overwhelm you with jargon.
Click here to set up a free, friendly, in-depth, no-pressure legal consultation!

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Thousand Oaks Estate Planning Attorney — Eric Ridley

You’ve worked hard to build a life, a legacy, and maybe even some wealth.

Now it’s time to protect it.

I’m Eric Ridley. I help people in Thousand Oaks and across the county create clear, legally sound estate plans that make life easier for their families—and harder for the courts, creditors, and anyone who wants to challenge your wishes.

Whether you’re planning for the future, handling a loved one’s estate, or facing a legal dispute, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Call now: 805-244-5291

Let’s talk about your estate plan, or about Intentionally defective grantor trust.

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Estate Planning Services

You don’t need a law degree to create a great estate plan. You just need a guide who will listen, explain things clearly, and give you options that make sense for your life.

Here’s how I help:

Wills and Trusts

Want to make sure your assets go to the right people, without court delays or family fights?

I’ll help you:

•Write a will that’s clear and enforceable

•Set up a revocable living trust to avoid probate

•Create a backup plan for kids or vulnerable family members

•Make updates when your life or goals change

Don’t leave your family guessing. A well-crafted plan gives them clarity—and peace of mind.

Asset Protection in Thousand Oaks

Worried about lawsuits, creditors, or long-term care costs wiping out what you’ve built?

I can help you:

•Set up asset protection trusts

•Separate high-risk assets from safe ones

•Protect inheritances for children and grandchildren

•Reduce or avoid estate taxes legally and strategically

We’ll structure things the right way—before a problem ever shows up.

Powers of Attorney and Advance Health Directives

If you’re ever unable to make decisions, someone will have to make them for you.

The question is—who? And will they know what you want?

I’ll prepare the legal documents that:

•Name someone you trust to manage your finances or health care

•Give doctors and banks the authority they need to work with your agent

•Keep your family from arguing or guessing in a crisis

You stay in control—even when you can’t speak for yourself.

Special Needs & Charitable Trusts

Do you support a loved one with disabilities? Want to leave money to a cause you care about?

I’ll guide you through options like:

•Special needs trusts (to preserve benefits)

•Charitable remainder or lead trusts (to support nonprofits while reducing taxes)

•Inheritance planning for blended families or second marriages

Your values and goals deserve to outlive you.

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Probate Services in Thousand Oaks

Probate can feel overwhelming.

There are forms, deadlines, court hearings, asset inventories, tax issues, and family tension. If you’re the one in charge, the pressure is heavy.

I’ll help you:

•Understand your legal duties as executor

•Get the estate through probate with as little stress as possible

•Avoid mistakes that cause delays or personal liability

•Resolve disputes with heirs or creditors

Most people only go through probate once. I do it every day. Let’s get it done right.

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Why Work With Me?

• I talk like a real person, not a legal memo.

• I work remotely—no office visit required.

• I’m hands-on, responsive, and don’t pass you off to staff.

• I’ve helped hundreds of families plan, protect, and pass on what matters.

• I focus on giving you clarity—not confusion or paperwork.

Your estate plan should work.

It should reflect your values.

And it should make life easier for the people you love.

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Ready to Protect What Matters?

Call 805-244-5291 to schedule a free consultation.

No pressure. No jargon. Just real solutions and straight answers.

I’m Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley, and I’m an un-stuffy lawyer.

I don’t bite.

Set up your free consultation with me and let’s talk about your Intentionally defective grantor trust needs in Thousand Oaks or anywhere else in California

I promise to answer your questions, and not to overwhelm you with jargon.

Click here to set up a free, friendly, in-depth, no-pressure legal consultation!

California’s vibrant city of Thousand Oaks boasts a delightful blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic landscapes, this charming locale invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore the breathtaking trails of the Santa Monica Mountains. A local favorite, The Oaks mall serves as a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, where visitors can indulge in a delectable meal at the renowned Yard House, known for its extensive menu and lively atmosphere. As the sun sets, the city transforms, with families gathering in parks for picnics and friends enjoying the vibrant nightlife. The local art scene adds to the cultural tapestry, with galleries showcasing the works of talented artists. Whether hiking through lush trails or savoring a gourmet burger with friends, Thousand Oaks embraces all the warmth and charm of California living.

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