Twelve years ago, Latoya transferred property to an irrevocable trust with a bank trustee. Latoya named Al to receive the trust income annually for life and Pat or Pat’s estate to receive the remainder upon Al’s death. Latoya reserved the power to designate Mike or Mike’s estate (instead of Pat or Pat’s estate) to receive the remainder. Upon Latoya’s death in August 2015, the trust assets were valued at $200,000; Al was age 50; Mike, age 27; and Pat, age 32. Assume a 4% rate for the actuarial tables.
a. How much, if any, is included in Latoya’s gross estate?
b. How much would have been included in Latoya’s gross estate if she had not retained any powers over the trust?