Author: KaraATO(Community Support)Community Support 19 May 2026
Hi @stu,
We checked your question with the tech experts, and we don't recommend people estimating their income in this scenario.
The beneficiary needs to include their share of the trust's net income in their 2025-26 tax return. This is based on their entitlement as at 30 June 2026, not when they receive the money.
While a trust resolution must be made by 30 June, it doesn’t always need to specify an exact dollar amount. What matters is that the beneficiary is presently entitled by that date.
The trustee will usually give the final details (including franking credits) after the trust tax return is completed. To report this correctly, the best option is to wait until these details are available before lodging the tax return.
If you’re preparing your own return, you may also consider requesting a deferral or suspension to lodge, so you can include the correct info from the start.
If the beneficiary lodges their return before receiving this info, they may need to request an amendment later once they have the final figures from the trustee. For this reason, it’s generally best to wait until you have all the details before lodging.
Because of this, it’s a good idea to work with the trustee or, if you’re using one, a registered tax agent to ensure the correct info is included before lodging.
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