Why Joint Trusts Are Often the Default Choice

Joint trusts are commonly used for married couples because they simplify estate planning and administration during their lifetime. Unlike separate trusts, which split assets between spouses and require ongoing rebalancing (e.g., if one trust grows to $1.2 million while the other drops to $800,000), joint trusts keep assets unified, reducing administrative complexity. They also avoid potential conflicts from managing two distinct estate plans, which can introduce unnecessary complications. Importantly, joint trusts can be structured with disclaimer provisions to maximize state and federal estate tax exemptions, countering myths that separate trusts are always needed for tax benefits. They offer the possibility of having two distinct trusts without forcing your trustee or your surviving spouse's hand into an unfavorable situation that doesn't benefit the estate. While separate trusts may be preferred for significant separate assets or blended families, joint trusts offer ease and efficiency without sacrificing flexibility.