If you are a business professional, you may have heard of discretionary trusts—but do you know what they are and how they can help you? This blog post is here to explain exactly what a discretionary trust is and how it can be beneficial for you in your business dealings.
Put simply, a discretionary trust is a legal document that appoints a manager or trustee to manage and distribute assets on behalf of a beneficiary – sometimes called the ‘trustee.’ This document outlines the conditions and rules by which the assets are handled and distributed, and it also specifies that the trustee has the discretion to decide how the assets are managed and distributed.
A discretionary trust can be useful for many different types of business dealings. For instance, an entrepreneur may want to set up a trust to make sure that their assets are managed and distributed according to their wishes in the event of their death or incapacity. It can also be useful for setting up trusts for managing income and assets for developing businesses or for taking care of family members.
What Are the Benefits of a Discretionary Trust?
A discretionary trust offers a variety of benefits for business professionals. First and foremost, it can provide certainty in managing and passing on assets in a way that meets the wishes of the trustmaker. It also gives control and flexibility in how the assets are managed and distributed amongst those who benefit from the trust. This makes it easier to ensure that the right people receive the right amounts at the right times.
The discretionary trust also provides assurance to those who benefit from it that their assets are secure and well cared for, as the trustee has the power to decide when and to whom to distribute the assets. This adds peace of mind and security that the assets will remain where they should in the long-term.
The Takeaway:
Discretionary trusts are an excellent way for business professionals to manage and distribute assets with confidence. By setting up a trust, those who benefit from it can rest assured that their assets are managed and distributed in the manner that is right for them. If you think that a discretionary trust may benefit your business, then why not speak to a legal professional to find out more.