How Trusts Can Be Used in Wealth Preservation

At Turner Law in Decatur, GA, we understand that building wealth requires decades of discipline, informed decisions, and diligent work. Preserving that wealth—for your family, your business, and your legacy—requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Trusts are one of the most effective tools for long-term wealth preservation, offering protection from creditors, taxes, probate, and financial risk.

Whether you’re a small business owner in Decatur, a retiree in East Lake, or a professional looking to build generational wealth in Metro Atlanta, Turner Law is here to guide you through customized trust strategies that align with your financial goals.

Trusts as a Core Part of Your Wealth Plan

Trusts provide a legal structure for managing and distributing your assets, often outside of the probate system. But beyond avoiding probate, certain trusts are uniquely designed to protect wealth from erosion due to taxes, creditors, or family disputes.

According to the IRS, the average American estate pays a 40% estate tax on the value above the federal exemption limit (which is $13.61 million per person in 2024). Without the right legal structures in place, a substantial portion of your estate could be lost unnecessarily.

Domestic Asset Protection Trusts (DAPTs)

Domestic Asset Protection Trusts (DAPTs) are a powerful tool for protecting wealth from lawsuits, divorces, or bankruptcy. In a properly formed DAPT, the trust maker (you) transfers assets into a trust while retaining limited access to those funds. These trusts are typically formed in asset-protection-friendly states and can shield your wealth from future claims.

Whether you’re a business owner in Decatur or a physician in nearby Atlanta, a DAPT could offer peace of mind against unforeseen liabilities.

Closely Held Business Trusts

For entrepreneurs, preserving ownership and continuity of your company is critical. A closely held business trust can maintain control of shares, restrict stock transfers, and ensure the business stays within the family or selected heirs. It also reduces the risk of forced liquidation due to inheritance disputes or financial instability.

Turner Law assists family-run companies and startups across DeKalb County in building succession plans that honor your legacy and protect your assets.

IRA Stretch Trusts for Tax-Efficient Distribution

Traditional IRAs and other pre-tax retirement accounts come with required minimum distributions (RMDs) that can create a large tax burden for your heirs. An IRA Stretch Trust is designed to control how distributions are made over time, potentially reducing taxes and helping the account grow longer.

Given recent legislative changes (like the SECURE Act), structuring IRA distributions through a trust is more important than ever for preserving tax-advantaged retirement funds for future generations.

Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs)

Life insurance proceeds are often mistakenly assumed to be tax-free. In reality, they can be included in your estate and subject to estate tax. An Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT) removes the policy from your taxable estate, protecting the proceeds from taxation while allowing you to control how and when the funds are distributed.

ILITs are commonly used by high-net-worth families in Metro Atlanta who want to protect their estate and secure liquidity for heirs.

Charitable Trusts: Give Back, Get Tax Benefits

Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs) and Charitable Lead Trusts (CLTs) allow you to support causes that matter to you while also reducing your estate taxes. With a CRT, you or your beneficiaries receive income for a set period, and the remainder goes to charity. With a CLT, the charity receives income first, then your heirs receive the remainder later.

These trusts can combine philanthropy with practical tax-saving benefits—especially valuable for individuals with appreciated assets.

Why Choose Turner Law in Decatur, GA?

At Turner Law, we combine in-depth knowledge of estate planning with a deep understanding of Georgia state law to craft personalized wealth protection strategies. We take the time to understand your assets, family dynamics, and long-term goals so we can recommend the right type of trust for your needs.

Located in Decatur and proudly serving DeKalb County, we help clients across Greater Atlanta take control of their financial future with confidence.

Start Your Wealth Preservation Plan Today

Trusts are not just for the ultra-wealthy. They’re a smart, strategic way to ensure the wealth you’ve built is protected, preserved, and passed on exactly as you intend. Contact Turner Law in Decatur, GA, today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help safeguard your legacy with proven legal solutions.

Posted on the behalf of Turner Law, LLC