What is a Trust
A trust is a legal arrangement where a person (the settlor) places assets under the control of a trustee to manage
for the benefit of named beneficiaries. The trustee is legally obliged to manage these assets in line with the terms of
the trust and in the best interest on the beneficiaries. Trusts are commonly used for estate planning, asset protection
and managing how assets are passed on.
If you are planning to create a Family Trust, Discretionary Trust, Will Trust, or Charitable Trust, it is important to be aware that Irish law requires certain trusts to be formally registered with the Central Register of Beneficial Ownership of Trusts (CRBOT). This registration ensures transparency, compliance with anti-money-laundering regulations, and offers protection to both trustees and beneficiaries.
Our dedicated team offers a comprehensive, straightforward service, guiding you through every stage of the trust registration process.
Who Must Register a Trust?
In Ireland, most express trusts are required to register if any of the following apply:
- The trust holds assets such as property, bank accounts, shares, or investments
- The trust becomes liable to Irish tax
- The trustee is resident in Ireland or enters into a business relationship within the EU
Types of trusts that fall under these requirements include:
- Family Trusts
- Bare Trusts
- Discretionary Trusts
- Asset Protection Trusts
- Charitable Trusts
- Will Trusts (once they become effective)
What Information Needs to Be Registered?
Trustees are obliged to provide the following information:
- Trust details: Name of the trust, date of creation, type and purpose of the trust, and country of residence
- Beneficial owner information (for settlors, trustees, protectors, and beneficiaries):
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Nationality
- PPS number or an equivalent form of identification
- Nature and extent of their interest in the trust
We ensure that all required information is accurately gathered and submitted in accordance with Irish anti-money-laundering regulations.
Our Trust Registration Services
- Complete CRBOT Registration: We handle the preparation and submission of all necessary information to the Central Register.
- Compliance Review: We ensure your trust adheres to both Irish and EU regulatory obligations.
- Ongoing Maintenance & Updates: Any changes to trust details or beneficial owners must be reported within 14 days, and we manage this process for you.
- Secure Documentation: We assist with the creation, safe storage, and updating of all trust records.
- Trustee Support: We offer guidance on trustee duties, compliance requirements, and annual responsibilities.
Avoid Penalties for Non-Compliance
If a trust is not registered or its information is not kept up to date, the consequences can include:
- Financial penalties
- Regulatory enforcement actions
- Difficulties opening bank accounts or managing trust assets
We ensure your trust remains fully compliant, allowing you to focus on effective asset management with complete peace of mind.
Why Choose Us?
- Extensive expertise in Irish trust and anti-money-laundering regulations
- Clear and responsive advice
- Protection against penalties for late or incorrect registration
Whether you are establishing a new trust or require assistance registering an existing one, our team is here to support you at every step.