Understanding Your Ownership Rights After Inheriting Texas Mineral Rights

If you inherit mineral rights in Texas, understanding your ownership rights is essential for making informed decisions.

First, verify legal ownership by reviewing deeds, wills, or probate documents. You may need to file an affidavit of heirship or transfer ownership through probate court.

Once ownership is established, you gain the right to lease, sell, or retain the mineral rights. Leasing allows energy companies to extract minerals while paying you royalties. Selling provides a lump sum payment, while retaining ownership keeps future revenue potential.

Mineral owners should also understand tax obligations, including property and income taxes on royalties. Additionally, Texas law favors mineral rights over surface rights, meaning operators can access resources with minimal interference from surface owners.

To maximize the value of inherited mineral rights, consider professional appraisals, legal advice, and market trends before making any decisions.