Doctrine by topic · DGT Observatory

Fiduciary: DGT doctrinal evolution

How the DGT's position on this topic has evolved, and the rulings it rests on.

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How the DGT's position has evolved

Settled doctrine High confidence 10 rulings · 2017–2024

Current position

A fiduciary with power of disposal is taxed on full ownership for the ISD (Inheritance and Gift Tax) and the IIVTNU (Tax on Property Transfers in Succession and Gratuitous Transfers). If they only have the right to enjoyment, they are taxed on the usufruct. Upon execution of the trust, the fiduciary or their heirs may request a refund for the portion corresponding to the bare ownership that was not disposed of.

The DGT's position remains constant regarding the treatment of the fiduciary according to their powers. The rulings confirm that the power of disposal determines the settlement based on full ownership and the subsequent right to a refund for the bare ownership.

Analysis based on 10 of 10 rulings with a stated position. Updated 28 September 2026.

Rulings on this topic

10
V3261-19 27 Nov 2019

Heirs of a fiduciary may claim a refund of tax paid on full ownership

SG de Impuestos Patrimoniales, Tasas y Precios Públicos
sustitución fideicomisariafiduciariofideicomisariopleno dominionuda propiedad LISD — Ley 29/1987 de Sucesiones y Donaciones art. 1LISD — Ley 29/1987 de Sucesiones y Donaciones art. 3.1.a
Affects CompanyExpat · Non-residentIndividual
V1147-17 12 May 2017

Residual trustee taxed on full ownership and may claim refund for bare ownership

SG de Impuestos Patrimoniales, Tasas y Precios Públicos
fideicomiso de residuofiduciariofideicomisariopleno dominionuda propiedad LISD — Ley 29/1987 de Sucesiones y Donaciones art. 26.dRD 1629/1991 del Reglamento del Impuesto sobre Sucesiones y Donaciones
Affects CompanyExpat · Non-residentIndividual
V0991-17 24 Apr 2017

Tax on substitution of residue accrues upon the death of the fiduciary

SG de Impuestos Patrimoniales, Tasas y Precios Públicos
sustitución fideicomisaria de residuofiduciariofideicomisariohecho imponibledevengo LISD — Ley 29/1987 de Sucesiones y Donaciones art. 3.1.aLISD — Ley 29/1987 de Sucesiones y Donaciones art. 5.a
Affects CompanyExpat · Non-residentIndividual

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