Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Massachusetts
I have an inheritance from my son in a trust and my two daughters are the trustees. Am I entitled to an accounting of the trust in order to find out what it is worth and, also, what happens to the contents of the trust when I die?
2 Answers from Attorneys
As the beneficiary of the trust, you are entitled to both a copy of the trust, the inventory (what went into the trust when it was funded) and an accounting upon reasonable request or as directed by the trust. Contact your daughters and ask. If they refuse your request, write them a letter and make the request. If they still refuse the request, contact an estate planning attorney.
You are entitled to know what was in the Trust when you became a beenficiary and to reasonable (at least annual reports) of the status of the assets of the trust and use of funds (an accounting or statement).
You should write to your daughters requesting that information and a copy of the trust. The issue will be what rights you have under the trust, such as a power of appointment or if you have a right to seek assets for your support from the trust.
If they refuse to give you the information, then contact an estate planning attorney to assist you.