In this edition of 'It depends', lawyer Sacha Robinson talks about whether your family trust deed needs to be stamped.
Video transcript
Welcome to today's edition of It Depends. Today, we will be talking about whether your family trust deed needs to be stamped.
Does my family trust deed need to be stamped?
It depends. In Queensland, your trust deed does not need to be stamped. However, stamping is a requirement in other states such as Victoria and New South Wales. We suggest that when you are establishing your trust deed, that you check the stamping requirements as these may change. Usually, there will be nominal stamp duty payable, however, this varies in each state.
Will stamp duty be payable?
Yes, but that time frame varies in each state.
Is there a time frame for having my trust deed stamped?
If you do not get your trust deed stamped within the relevant time frame, there may be late fees and penalty interest payable to the relevant revenue office.
What happens if I do not get my trust deed stamped?
There are several potential problems if you do not get your trust deed stamped when it is required. Firstly, as previously mentioned, there may be late fees and penalty interest payable. Secondly, revenue offices, banks and government authorities will likely need your trust deed to be stamped when dealing with your trust. And lastly, there is also a risk that an unstamped trust deed may be unenforceable in certain circumstances.
Cooper Grace Ward is a leading Australian law firm based in Brisbane.
This publication is for information only and is not legal advice. You should obtain advice that is specific to your circumstances and not rely on this publication as legal advice. If there are any issues you would like us to advise you on arising from this publication, please contact Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers.
