The terms of the trust as well as the laws and case law of the state will determine the beneficiary’s rights in Texas. Although the Texas Trust Code places strict restrictions on how far the trust agreement can depart from the statutes, in general, the terms of the trust will hold sway over the statutes regarding the obligations of the trustee and the rights of the beneficiaries. The beneficiary’s rights will also depend on the form of trust and the type of beneficiary. Book a consultation with an attorney today to understand your rights as a beneficiary. 

To know the terms of the trust:

When someone sets up a trust, they give legal control of assets to a trustee who manages them for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries. The beneficiaries are entitled to know the terms of the trust, which are the specific rules and conditions governing the trust. These terms are usually set out in legal documents like a trust agreement or a will.

The beneficiaries of a trust have a right to be aware of its provisions. Those conditions are stated in some form of legal instruments, such as a trust agreement or a final will and testament. Beneficiaries of the trust have the right to obtain a copy of that instrument as well as any additional trust provisions.

Trust accounting and disclosure of information:

Once a trust becomes irrevocable, the beneficiaries who are currently entitled to the trust have specific rights. They can request accounting data from the trustee which outlines information about the assets of the trust, such as acquisitions, transfers, and payouts. This information helps beneficiaries to evaluate the trustee’s management of the trust, and to verify whether the trustee is complying with their responsibilities.

Current beneficiaries get the right to obtain accounting data, such as asset acquisition, transfers, payouts, and other transactions, once the trust becomes irrevocable.  In addition, if existing beneficiaries believe the trustee is not operating in their best interests, they may petition the court to have the trustee removed.

Distribution of assets:

The distribution of assets is a crucial part of a trust’s operations. The current beneficiaries are entitled to receive asset or income distributions according to the trust’s provisions. The specific conditions of the trust will determine how and when the distributions are made.

According to the provisions of the trust, current beneficiaries are entitled to the asset or income distributions. The exact conditions of the trust will determine this. 

When deciding if, when, and how much to distribute, the trustee may occasionally exercise their discretion. Other times, the trustee is subject to rigorous requirements imposed by the trust provisions. The trustee may be required to make distributions following the rules of the trust on particular dates, such as every month, every year, or when a beneficiary reaches a certain age.

Beneficiaries of a trust should have an understanding of the distribution provisions in the trust, as it can significantly impact their financial well-being. It is vital that beneficiaries communicate with the trustee to ensure that they receive their distributions correctly and at the right time.

What are some other rights?

the right to ask a court to dissolve the trust if it no longer serves a purpose, that purpose has been fulfilled, or the terms of the trust cannot be fulfilled.

Depending on the situation and the provisions of the trust agreement, contingent beneficiaries may be entitled to information or may petition the court to remove the trustee or dissolve the trust.

Final thoughts:

As a beneficiary of a trust in San Antonio, it is crucial to understand your rights regarding the trust’s terms, accounting and disclosure of information, and distribution of assets. If a beneficiary believes the trustee is not acting in their best interests, they may petition the court to remove the trustee or dissolve the trust. It is recommended to consult with an attorney to fully understand and protect your rights as a beneficiary. 

If you need help, make an appointment for a consultation with a law firm. A San Antonio trust lawyer can assist you in setting a trust, explaining your rights, and contesting trustee actions.