Yes, in most cases. Under Arizona’s Trust Code (particularly A.R.S. § 14-10813), a trustee has a duty to keep qualified beneficiaries reasonably informed about the administration of the trust and the material facts needed to protect their interests.
Key points:
- Qualified beneficiaries are generally entitled to information about the trust’s existence, the trustee’s identity and contact information, and relevant portions of the trust instrument.
- The trustee must ordinarily provide periodic reports (at least annually in many situations) that include trust property, liabilities, receipts, disbursements, and the trustee’s compensation.
- Beneficiaries can request additional information related to administration, and the trustee must respond promptly unless it would be unreasonable under the circumstances.
- A beneficiary may waive the right to reports or information (and can later withdraw that waiver).
The trust document can modify some of these duties, but certain core obligations (especially responding to reasonable requests from qualified beneficiaries of an irrevocable trust) cannot be completely eliminated. If a trustee refuses to provide required information, a beneficiary can petition the court to compel an accounting or other relief.
Legal Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with Fountain Hills Law Firm. Legal outcomes vary based on individual circumstances, and readers should consult an attorney regarding their specific situation.
