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How The Este Lauder Companies Inc. Employees Can Use Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts (IDGTs) in Estate Planning

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“The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees reviewing IDGTs can benefit from understanding how these trusts may support long-term legacy planning, although qualified legal and tax professionals should review these strategies to determine whether they fit into their overall goals.” ~ Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

“The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees considering an IDGT should recognize how this strategy may support long-term wealth transfer goals, although these structures should be reviewed with qualified legal and tax professionals to determine whether they align with each household’s broader plan.” ~ Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How intentionally defective grantor trusts (IDGTs) work.
The advantages and potential limitations of using an IDGT.
Key considerations for The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees evaluating this type of planning strategy.

An irrevocable trust arrangement known as an intentionally defective grantor trust (IDGT) allows the grantor to move assets out of their taxable estate while still being treated as the owner of those assets for income tax purposes. Many people, including The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees with high-growth or income-producing holdings, may benefit from using this strategy to support long-term wealth preservation.

How an Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust Works

For tax purposes, different kinds of trusts receive different treatment, and understanding the distinctions can help The Este Lauder Companies Inc. professionals review planning strategies more effectively.

Revocable Trusts

In a revocable trust, the grantor is taxed on trust income and is regarded as the owner for income tax purposes. A separate trust income tax return is usually unnecessary. These assets generally remain inside the grantor’s taxable estate because the grantor maintains full control.

Irrevocable Trusts

An irrevocable trust is treated as its own tax entity, filing its own return and taking its own deductions. When properly drafted so the grantor does not retain certain powers or interests, assets transferred to an irrevocable trust are generally removed from the taxable estate, a detail that can matter for The Este Lauder Companies Inc. professionals with substantial savings or investment holdings.

How IDGTs Combine These Features

An IDGT is structured as an irrevocable trust for estate and gift tax purposes, removing assets from the taxable estate, but is treated as a grantor trust for income tax purposes. As long as the grantor pays income taxes on trust earnings, the trust’s assets can grow outside the estate, which may appeal to The Este Lauder Companies Inc. professionals with long-term legacy goals.

Why It’s Called “Intentionally Defective”

The trust is drafted so that, under IRS grantor-trust rules, the grantor remains the owner for income tax purposes due to certain retained powers. At the same time, the trust is irrevocable for estate tax purposes, allowing the assets to remain outside the taxable estate—a structure that may assist with multigenerational planning.

Advantages of an Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust

Because an IDGT is a grantor trust for income tax purposes, the grantor pays income tax on trust earnings. This leads to two important benefits that may interest The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees with high-value assets:

- Trust assets can grow for beneficiaries without being reduced by income tax payments.
- Income tax paid by the grantor reduces the taxable estate without being classified as a gift.

- This dynamic—where grantors use personal funds to pay taxes that would otherwise reduce trust assets—is often referred to as a “tax burn.”

How Assets Are Transferred to an IDGT

The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees reviewing wealth transfer strategies may encounter two common approaches:

1. Gift or Partial Gift/Sale

A grantor can move assets to an IDGT as a gift. If the gift stays within the lifetime gift and estate tax exemption, it typically does not create out-of-pocket gift tax. Some planning approaches combine a partial gift with a sale to balance estate goals.

2. Sale to the IDGT

Many grantors sell assets to an IDGT in exchange for a promissory note with an interest rate at or above the IRS Applicable Federal Rate (AFR).

- The sale is typically not treated as a taxable gift if conducted at fair market value.
- Appreciation above the AFR occurs outside the grantor’s estate for beneficiaries.
- When AFR rules and loan requirements are followed, the note is treated as valid consideration and carries an interest obligation.

Potential Drawbacks of an IDGT

Once established, an IDGT is difficult to modify, similar to other irrevocable trusts. Outcomes also depend on the trust assets growing at a rate higher than the AFR. If that does not occur, the intended estate planning benefits may fall short—an important consideration for The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees reviewing various asset types.

Who Might Consider an IDGT?

An IDGT can be appealing for families facing potential estate tax exposure, especially when transferring assets with strong growth potential. This approach works best when the grantor has sufficient liquidity to continue paying the trust’s income taxes personally, a factor some The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employees review when assessing retirement and estate liquidity. Because the structure requires precise legal drafting, it should be established with qualified legal counsel.

Need Support with IDGTs or Retirement Planning?

The Retirement Group can assist you in reviewing whether an IDGT fits into your broader retirement and estate plan as a The Este Lauder Companies Inc. employee. For guidance tailored to your long-term goals, call us at (800) 900-5867 .

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Sources:

1. BMO Wealth Management. Herman, Brad. Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust. BMO Financial Group, Oct. 2021,
https://uswealth.bmo.com/media/filer_public/8b/3f/8b3f85c6-21b0-407e-bfbf-0f9b181c1673/bwm_idgtarticle_1103.pdf .

2. Fidelity Wealth Management. “What Is an Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust (IDGT)?” Fidelity Viewpoints , 4 Dec. 2025,
https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/wealth-management/insights/intentionally-defective-grantor-trusts .

3. Hirtle, Callaghan & Co. Estate Planning With Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts.
Hirtle, Callaghan & Co., 2020,
https://www.hirtlecallaghan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Intentionally-Defective-Grantor-Trusts.pdf .

4. Nevada Trust Company. Ford-Grella, Jaclyn. “How Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts Can Safeguard Assets for Future Generations.” Nevada Trust Company , 10 Dec. 2024,
https://www.nevadatrust.com/how-intentionally-defective-grantor-trusts-can-safeguard-assets-for-future-generations/ .

What type of retirement savings plan does The Este Lauder Companies Inc. offer to its employees?

The Este Lauder Companies Inc. offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal during the enrollment period or upon eligibility.

Does The Este Lauder Companies Inc. provide a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, The Este Lauder Companies Inc. provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain conditions.

What is the vesting schedule for the employer match in The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan?

The vesting schedule for the employer match in The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan typically follows a graded vesting schedule over a period of years.

Can employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan?

The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

Are there any fees associated with The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan, which can include administrative fees and investment management fees.

How often can employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?

Employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. can typically change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan on a quarterly basis or during open enrollment periods.

What is the minimum contribution percentage required for The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan?

The minimum contribution percentage required for The Este Lauder Companies Inc.'s 401(k) plan may vary, but it is often set at 1% or 2% of eligible pay.

Can employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. roll over funds from other retirement accounts into their 401(k)?

Yes, employees of The Este Lauder Companies Inc. can roll over funds from other qualified retirement accounts into their 401(k) plan.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Pension Plan: The Estée Lauder Companies' primary pension plan is the Retirement Growth Account (RGA) Plan. This is a defined benefit plan where benefits are generally calculated based on years of service and the employee's compensation. The plan is designed to provide a stable income upon retirement. Employees are typically fully vested after five years of service, meaning they are entitled to full benefits even if they leave the company after this period. The plan is intended to work alongside other retirement income sources, including the company’s 401(k) plan and Social Security. 401(k) Plan: The Estée Lauder Companies 401(k) Savings Plan is a defined contribution plan, where employees can contribute a portion of their paycheck towards retirement savings. The company offers matching contributions to a certain percentage, enhancing the savings potential for employees. The plan is available to most employees and includes a variety of investment options, allowing participants to tailor their retirement savings strategy according to their individual financial goals.

Layoffs & Restructuring: In August 2023, Estée Lauder announced a significant restructuring plan involving layoffs and a strategic shift. The company aimed to reduce its global workforce by approximately 10% to streamline operations and focus on high-growth areas. This decision followed a period of slower-than-expected growth and shifting market dynamics. The restructuring is part of a broader effort to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to changing consumer preferences. This news is crucial to address due to the current economic climate, which impacts investment strategies and financial planning. The ongoing economic uncertainties and evolving tax policies make it essential for stakeholders to stay informed about such corporate actions to make informed decisions about their investments and retirement planning.

The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. provided stock options and RSUs to its executive team and senior management as part of their long-term incentive plan. The stock options granted are typically non-qualified stock options (NSOs) and the RSUs are granted based on performance metrics and tenure.

Health Benefits Information: Medical Coverage: Includes a variety of plans, with options for PPO and HMO plans. Dental and Vision: Offers comprehensive dental and vision care. Mental Health Support: Includes Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and mental health resources. Wellness Programs: Wellness initiatives like health screenings and fitness reimbursements. Additional Benefits: Includes health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).