What is a QTIP Trust ?

A QTIP Trust is a Qualified Terminal Interest Property Trust. A QTIP Trust permits the spouse with all of the assets to "leave" the property to the surviving spouse, but the surviving spouse cannot touch the principal of the trust. He or she must hold on to the QTIP Trust's income (interest, dividends, royalties, etc.) for his or her lifetime. But, the spouse with all the assets gets an Unlimited Marital Deduction that makes his estate pay Zero Estate Tax upon his death and it can utilize the surviving spouse's exclusion when she dies. Speak to your local CPA or attorney about this tax planning strategy.