Beneficiaries have rights to information about how a trust is being managed. California law requires a trustee to share requested information when a beneficiary asks and the information relates to their interest in the trust.
What information can a beneficiary request?
A beneficiary can ask for information about trust assets, debts, income, expenses and key actions the trustee has taken. The scope of the request depends on the beneficiary’s interest and the type of trust. A request should focus on information relevant to that interest.
Some beneficiaries of an irrevocable trust also have the right to receive a copy of the trust document. Whether this right applies depends on the beneficiary’s status and why the trust became irrevocable. California law identifies when a trustee must provide a complete copy of the trust.
How should a beneficiary request trust information?
A beneficiary should make a clear, written request to the trustee. A written request creates a record of what was asked and when. The written request can also establish when the waiting period begins.
If the trustee does not respond, California law allows a beneficiary to petition the court over certain trust matters. This can include disputes about trust administration, requests for accountings and requests for information.
What if a trustee refuses to provide information?
A trustee who does not respond does not end the matter. A beneficiary may be able to seek a court order requiring the trustee to provide the information.
For certain requests, the beneficiary generally must have made a written request and waited 60 days before seeking court relief. The law also considers whether the beneficiary received the information within the past six months.
If a trustee does not share requested information, a California trust attorney can review the request, assess the trustee’s duties and explain whether court action is an option.