CRUT Basics

Charitable Remainder Unitrusts (CRUTs) are among the most versatile yet frequently underutilized planning tools available to estate planners, CPAs, and wealth advisers. This practical introductory webinar is designed for professionals who are new to CRUT planning or who have only limited experience using these powerful charitable strategies. Rather than focusing on complicated technical rules, the program emphasizes real-world applications, client conversations, and the planning opportunities CRUTs can create. Attendees will learn how CRUTs can be used with appreciated securities, real estate, closely held business interests, and retirement assets; how they can help clients diversify concentrated positions, address capital gain concerns, increase cash flow, support charitable objectives, and integrate with broader estate planning strategies. The webinar also explores common planning misconceptions, practical implementation issues, wealth replacement concepts, beneficiary considerations, trustee selection, charitable intent discussions, and opportunities created by recent developments affecting retirement accounts. Through examples, illustrations, and practitioner-focused discussion, participants will gain a clear understanding of when a CRUT may be appropriate, what questions to ask clients, how to identify planning opportunities, and how CRUTs can add value as part of a coordinated advisory team approach. Whether you are a lawyer, CPA, insurance consultant, or financial adviser, this program will provide practical insights you can apply immediately in client engagements.

Speakers: Winton Smith, Esq.  and Martin Shenkman, Esq.