What happens if a beneficiary accepts any property or benefits of an inheritance?

When a beneficiary accepts any property or benefits from an inheritance, they typically forfeit the option to disclaim the inheritance. Disclaiming an inheritance generally involves formally refusing it, which must occur before any acceptance of the property. By accepting the property or benefits, the beneficiary demonstrates their intention to take ownership, and once this decision is made, they cannot later choose to renounce their share.

It's important to recognize the implications of acceptance. A beneficiary’s acceptance can include actions that indicate ownership or use of the property, such as taking possession, selling the property, or receiving income or benefits derived from the inherited assets. Once this acceptance occurs, the beneficiary is legally bound to that inheritance, which precludes any subsequent disclaiming of it.

Other choices do not accurately reflect the law regarding inheritance acceptance. For instance, automatic inheritance isn't guaranteed just by any act of acceptance; there might be additional legal conditions. Taxes may apply depending on the situation, but they are not a direct consequence of acceptance itself and may depend on jurisdictional laws regarding inheritance and estate taxes.