Qualified domestic trust 2026

See details

4.6 out of 5

58 votes

The Qualified Domestic Trust Agreement establishes a trust between the Grantor and Trustee to manage assets for the benefit of the Grantor during their lifetime and subsequently for their non-U.S. citizen spouse and children. It outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Trustee, including asset management, income distribution, and provisions for incapacity. The trust aims to qualify under U.S. tax laws to provide financial support while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Here's how it works

01. Edit your qdot trust sample online

Type text, add images, blackout confidential details, add comments, highlights and more.

02. Sign it in a few clicks

Draw your signature, type it, upload its image, or use your mobile device as a signature pad.

03. Share your form with others

Send qualified domestic trust sample via email, link, or fax. You can also download it, export it or print it out.

How to use or fill out qualified domestic trust with our platform

Ease of Setup

DocHub User Ratings on G2

Ease of Use

DocHub User Ratings on G2

Click ‘Get Form’ to open the Qualified Domestic Trust Agreement in the editor.
Begin by entering the date of the agreement and the names and addresses of both the Grantor and Trustee in the designated fields.
In Section A, provide details about the property being transferred to the Trustee. Attach Schedule A as necessary.
Complete Section B by specifying the lifetime provisions for both the Grantor and their spouse, ensuring to note that the spouse is not a U.S. citizen.
Fill out Section I regarding the rights and powers of both Grantor and Trustee, detailing any specific instructions for managing life insurance policies or other assets.
Review Sections II through V carefully, filling in any required information about trustee powers, successor trustees, and distribution plans for beneficiaries.
Finally, ensure all signatures are completed at the end of the document before saving your changes.

Start using our platform today to streamline your document editing process for free!

be ready to get more

Complete this form in 5 minutes or less

Get form

Got questions?

We have answers to the most popular questions from our customers. If you can't find an answer to your question, please contact us.

What is the difference between a QTIP and a Qdot?

A QTIP (qualified terminable interest property) is a special kind of trust that allows married people to control distribution of assets to their spouses while still taking advantage of the marital deduction. A QDOT allows the same, but is usually used by couples that have one U.S. citizen and one non-citizen spouse.

How do I know if a trust is qualified or nonqualified?

A trust may be qualified or non-qualified, according to the IRS. A qualified plan carries certain tax benefits. To be qualified, a trust must be valid under state law and must have identifiable beneficiaries. In addition, the IRA trustee, custodian, or plan administrator must receive a copy of the trust instrument.

What is the disadvantage of a QTIP trust?

One disadvantage is that the grantor cannot change their mind about the trust after it has been created. Another disadvantage is that the trustee must manage the property following the terms of the trust, which can be complex. Finally, a QTIP trust can be expensive to set up and maintain.

What is the purpose of a qualified domestic trust?

A qualified domestic trust (QDOT) allows surviving spouses who are not U.S. citizens to take the full marital deduction on estate taxes. If you are married to someone who is a citizen of another country, it may make sense to establish and fund a QDOT.