The Fort Worth Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC proudly serves trustees, beneficiaries, and families throughout Fort Worth, Arlington, Keller, Hurst, North Richland Hills, Mansfield, and the greater Tarrant County region as they navigate the process of trust administration in Texas. Trust administration can be complex, especially for individuals who have never served as a trustee before. Our Fort Worth team offers guidance, clarity, and hands-on support to ensure trustees carry out their duties legally, ethically, and efficiently.
Unlike probate, trust administration occurs outside the courtroom, which allows for a more private and streamlined process. However, the trustee still holds significant fiduciary responsibilities, including managing trust assets, resolving debts, communicating with beneficiaries, ensuring proper distribution, and maintaining strict compliance with the Texas Trust Code. A single mistake can lead to disputes, financial loss, or personal liability. Our Fort Worth Office makes sure trustees understand every step and avoid costly errors.
What Is Trust Administration in Texas?
Trust administration is the legal and financial management of assets placed in a trust. When the grantor (the person who created the trust) passes away or becomes incapacitated, the trustee assumes responsibility for carrying out the trust’s terms.
Key responsibilities involved in Texas trust administration include:
Identifying & Securing Trust Assets
Trustees must begin by locating all trust-owned property, such as:
- Bank and investment accounts
- Real estate in Fort Worth, Arlington, or the surrounding areas
- Retirement accounts and life insurance payouts
- Business interests or partnerships
- Digital financial accounts and records
- Valuable personal property
Proper asset identification and protection ensure a smooth administration process.
Notifying Beneficiaries & Required Parties
Trustees must provide beneficiaries with:
- Notice that the trust is being administered
- Copies of the trust document (upon request)
- Updates on the trust’s progress
- Information about their rights and distributions
Transparent communication is legally required and prevents unnecessary conflict.
Managing, Maintaining & Valuing Assets
Trustees are responsible for:
- Securing and preserving property
- Obtaining professional appraisals
- Maintaining insurance coverage
- Overseeing investments under Texas’s Prudent Investor Rule
- Filing necessary tax documents
Neglecting these tasks can expose the trustee to legal liability.
Paying Debts, Taxes & Administrative Expenses
Before distributing trust assets, trustees must ensure all obligations are satisfied:
- Valid creditor claims
- Final medical bills or outstanding invoices
- Federal income taxes and trust tax returns
- Property taxes and insurance
- Trust administration expenses
Proper financial management protects the trustee and beneficiaries.
Keeping Accurate Records & Providing Accountings
Trustees must maintain strict documentation, including:
- Receipts and disbursement records
- Transaction history
- Trust income and expenses
- Beneficiary communication
- Distribution reports
Beneficiaries can request these records at any time, and trustees must provide accurate accountings.
Distributing Trust Assets According to the Trust
Final distributions must follow the grantor’s written instructions. Trustees must ensure:
- Fair and timely distribution
- Proper titling of assets
- Documentation of all transfers
- Compliance with trust terms and Texas law
Our Fort Worth team assists with every distribution to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Why Work With Our Fort Worth Office?
Our Fort Worth trust administration team helps trustees:
- Interpret unclear trust provisions
- Navigate tax and financial requirements
- Manage communication with beneficiaries
- Avoid costly mistakes or legal disputes
- Protect themselves from personal liability
- Ensure trust assets are distributed correctly
We provide peace of mind and a clear roadmap from start to finish.
