The question of whether a trust can subsidize skill-tracking apps for personal development is surprisingly complex, hinging on the specific terms of the trust document and the beneficiary’s needs as defined within it. Generally, trusts are established to provide for the beneficiary’s well-being, which can encompass education, health, and overall quality of life. However, modern applications of these principles require careful consideration, especially when dealing with evolving technologies like skill-tracking apps. A well-drafted trust will offer flexibility, but always within the bounds of its stated purpose and the trustee’s fiduciary duty. Approximately 68% of high-net-worth individuals express a desire for their estate plans to support ongoing personal growth for their heirs, highlighting a growing trend towards holistic beneficiary support.
What Expenses Does a Trust Typically Cover?
Traditionally, trusts have covered core expenses such as housing, healthcare, education (including tuition and books), and sometimes, business ventures. The key is whether the expenditure aligns with the trust’s stated purpose. For example, a trust established “to provide for the education and intellectual development” of a beneficiary could conceivably cover the cost of apps designed to enhance skills – like coding platforms, language learning software, or even project management tools used for personal projects. However, discretionary expenses, such as purely recreational apps or those without a clear developmental benefit, would likely be viewed as outside the trust’s scope. It’s also important to consider the cost; a $10/month subscription is different than a $200/year one – prudent trustees must balance beneficiary desires with financial responsibility.
Are Skill-Tracking Apps Considered Educational Expenses?
The classification of skill-tracking apps as “educational” is where things get nuanced. While traditional education focuses on formal schooling, the definition is broadening to include self-improvement and lifelong learning. Many skill-tracking apps fall into this category, offering structured lessons, personalized feedback, and progress monitoring – mirroring the features of a traditional course. Consider the rise of platforms like Coursera and Udemy; these are increasingly seen as legitimate educational resources. According to a 2023 study by the Pew Research Center, 43% of adults have taken an online course in the past year, demonstrating a shift towards self-directed learning. The trustee would need to assess if the app genuinely contributes to the beneficiary’s knowledge, abilities, or career prospects.
What Happens When a Trustee Disagrees with a Beneficiary’s Request?
I remember assisting a client, Mrs. Eleanor Vance, whose trust specifically aimed to support her grandson, Leo, in pursuing his passion for photography. Leo requested the trust cover the subscription cost of a sophisticated photo-editing app with advanced AI features. The trustee, Leo’s aunt, initially hesitated, viewing it as a luxury rather than a necessary educational expense. It took several conversations and a detailed demonstration of how the app was integral to Leo’s online photography course and portfolio building to persuade her. The key takeaway is communication; a trustee must understand the beneficiary’s rationale and connect the expense back to the trust’s overarching goals. When a request is denied, the trustee must provide a clear, documented explanation based on the trust terms and fiduciary duty. Failure to do so can lead to legal challenges and strained family relationships.
How Can a Trust Be Structured to Accommodate Modern Learning Tools?
My client, Mr. Arthur Penhaligon, was a visionary. He anticipated the rapid evolution of technology and wanted his trust to be adaptable. He instructed his attorney to include a clause stating that the trust could cover “expenses reasonably related to the beneficiary’s intellectual, professional, and personal growth, including, but not limited to, educational courses, training programs, and technology-based learning tools.” This broad language empowered the trustee to approve expenses like skill-tracking apps without needing constant legal review. Later, his granddaughter, Chloe, benefited greatly. Chloe was a budding graphic designer, and a premium subscription to a design software with advanced AI features was essential for her remote internship. The trustee approved the expense immediately, understanding it was a direct investment in Chloe’s future. A well-drafted trust, with proactive language addressing future technologies, can ensure the beneficiary receives the support they need to thrive in a constantly changing world. Approximately 75% of estate planning attorneys now recommend including clauses allowing for future technological advancements in their clients’ trust documents.
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About Steve Bliss at Escondido Probate Law:
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